As the curtain falls on the UK tour in Cardiff, Karate Kid: The Musical proves there’s still plenty of life in one of the most iconic coming-of-age stories ever told.
If the title hasn’t already given it away, this stage adaptation is based on the beloved 1984 film. Fans will find all the familiar moments they know and love, but this musical also digs a little deeper into the relationships that helped shape Daniel LaRusso’s journey.
Rather than focusing solely on karate, the show spends more time exploring Daniel’s relationship with his mother and his romance with Ali Mills and not on the journey or clash with the Cobra Kai dojo, adding extra layers to the story. Personally, I wasn’t convinced the plot needed to be quite as deep as it became in places and I would have liked better martial art scenes. The original film’s simplicity is part of its charm, and at times the musical threatens to overcomplicate it.
That said, it’s still a hugely entertaining trip down memory lane.
The biggest surprise comes from Adrian Pang’s portrayal of Mr Miyagi. Pat Morita’s legendary performance in the film was built on quiet wisdom, dry humour and dignity. Pang takes the character in a slightly different direction, leaning much more into comedy and modern sitcom character. It won’t be exactly what long-time fans expect, but it works well on stage and gives the production plenty of genuinely funny moments.
The music is another pleasant surprise.
Every number is catchy, energetic and memorable, giving the whole production the feel of High School Musical… just with plenty more karate. It actually shares a lot of the same spirit as the later Cobra Kai series, blending humour, heart and action while embracing the nostalgia that audiences have for these characters, but I wasn’t disappointed that during the all important crane kick scene at the end the iconic song by Joe Esposito was nowhere to be seen and I would have liked to have heard rendition or nod to this track that is so iconic not just with that scene but the whole franchise.
The choreography deserves huge credit too. Whether it’s the lively ensemble numbers or the cleverly staged fight sequences with the spirit of the Miyagi family, the movement is slick, inventive and full of energy. Translating karate to the stage can’t have been an easy task, but the production manages it brilliantly, creating sequences that are both theatrical and exciting. Just wish there was more of it.
Cardiff audiences also had plenty to cheer about with two Welsh performers receiving well-deserved homecoming applause. Seren Douch, appearing as Miyagi’s wife, delivered a beautiful vocal performance that was one of the musical highlights of the evening, while Elliot Evans impressed as Johnny Lawrence, bringing plenty of swagger and confidence to one of the story’s most recognisable characters.
Visually, the production is bright, colourful and packed with energy, capturing the feel-good spirit that has made The Karate Kid such an enduring favourite for more than 40 years.
Is it different from the film? Absolutely.
Does every creative choice land? Perhaps not.
But if you’re willing to embrace this as a fresh take rather than a scene-for-scene remake, there’s a lot to enjoy. Packed with catchy songs, strong choreography, plenty of laughs and enough nostalgia to satisfy lifelong fans, Karate Kid: The Musical bows out from its UK tour having proved that this classic story can still pack quite a punch.
Wax on. Wax off. And take a trip back to the 1980s while you’re at it.
