REVIEW - Karate Kid The Musical is an all-round spectacular show perfect for fans of the 80's

We went to the Palace Theatre in Manchester to see Karate Kid The Musical. Read what our reviewer Erin had to say about this brand new production...

You’ve likely watched The Karate Kid before- it's a classic 80s movie- but now Karate Kid the musical is on a UK tour, and you most definitely don’t want to miss out. The musical follows Daniel LaRusso, a teenager struggling to fit in at his new school and quickly becomes the target of Johnny Lawrence, a skilled karate student from the Cobra Kai dojo. Luckily, Mr. Miyagi becomes an unexpected mentor, teaching karate in unusual ways. With Mr. Miyagi’s guidance, Daniel learns that karate is not just about fighting—it’s about self-control, courage, and inner strength. Will Daniel use everything he has learned to stand up to his bullies and prove to himself that he belongs? You’ll have to watch to find out!

First of all, I couldn’t get over how brilliant the choreography was! The karate fight scenes were epic, with daring and balanced moves. All the dances were also impressive: a fusion of contemporary and authentic martial arts, sometimes quick and harsh, and other times flowing yet disciplined; I couldn’t take my eyes off the ensemble. I can’t ignore the sheer talent of the choreographers Keone and Mari Madrid. No wonder the show got a standing ovation.

The small moments of humour brought the whole show together, and it was great to hear the audience appreciate this. Mr. Miyagi was easily the most hilarious character, and I loved the way he had been written to stay true to the original but also take on the classic theatre humour that an audience loves. I was also inspired by the moments of relatability in the show, and it was warming to see the key theme of wanting to step out of the norm and do the impossible.

I also couldn’t believe the amount of talent this cast had. They brought so much life to the stage, and I really got to know all the characters on a deeper level. One performance I was blown away by was Sharon Sexton (Bat Out of Hell: The Musical, MAMMA MIA!, Jesus Christ Superstar) who played Lucille LaRusso, Daniel’s mum. Lucille doesn’t have that big of a role in the movie, but I loved the fact that the show allowed us to see more of her and how she just wants to do what’s right for her family, and Sexton couldn’t have been a better choice for the role. I particularly loved her mother-son duet, which moved the audience and displayed her powerful voice.

Another favourite of mine had to be Mr. Miyagi. Whilst Mr. Miyagi is a master of Karate, Adrian Pang (Hamlet, Macbeth, The Comedy of Errors) is a master of the stage. He portrayed versatility, being able to show beautiful eccentricity, alongside the not-so-attractive moments that Mr. Miyagi endures. Pang is truly a wonder to watch. I loved the bond that Daniel and Mr. Miyagi had, and both Pang and Gino Ochello (Alice by Heart, Into the Woods, Once) succeeded in demonstrating their connection growing through shared experiences. I was blown away by Ochello’s magnificent voice, which led many songs, and it immediately felt as though you knew Daniel, because he was so easy to relate to.

This was the same for Abigail Amin (Spring Awakening, Sister Act, Stoker) who played Ali. Amin beautifully represented rebellion that sits in all teens; Ali knew she didn’t want to be who everybody else wanted her to be, and it was empowering to see her creating her own path on the stage. Amin and Ochello together made for a powerful duo. And if we are talking about power let's talk about Matt Mills (MJ the musical, Dreamgirls, Tina the Musical), who commanded the stage as Cobra Kai’s deranged sensei, John Kreese. A fierce character, and with some amazing karate/dance choreography, I felt the wrath of the sensei in full force, just like Johnny Lawrence. Joe Simmons (Cruel Intentions, Pippin, Made in Dagenham) got the character just right. Arrogant and flawed, but willing to do whatever John Kreese said, Simmons impressed the whole audience.

Whilst it stayed true to the movie, Karate Kid The Musical brought its own flare and uniqueness to it, creating an unforgettable performance. Perfect for any nostalgic fans of the movie, or families wanting to get their kids into the classic 80s stories; it is an all-round spectacular show that you do not want to miss out on.

WE SCORE KARATE KID THE MUSICAL...

Karate Kid The Musical is at the Palace Theatre, Manchester until Saturday 23rd May 2026.


Watch our "In Conversation with Gino Ochello" video discussing the show


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