Lord of the Dance: Show 'will go on' as Flatley obtains emergency injunction

Lord of the Dance: Show 'will go on' as Flatley obtains emergency injunction

Michael Flatley, renowned as the creator of the iconic show Lord of the Dance, has secured an emergency injunction aimed at preventing any disruption to the upcoming 30th anniversary performance scheduled to take place at Dublin’s 3Arena. This temporary legal order was granted by the High Court in Belfast amidst reports suggesting that the Thursday night show might be canceled due to an ongoing dispute.

The dispute involves Flatley and Switzer Consulting Ltd., an entertainment company that is involved in managing the extensive stage production. Switzer Consulting alleges that Flatley breached a service agreement made in July 2024, which granted them oversight of the tour operations. The company has also initiated a lawsuit claiming that Flatley’s actions threaten the scheduled shows, which number 268 across Europe and North America. Flatley, in turn, is preparing a counterclaim, with a trial expected later this year.

Despite earlier rumors of the show’s cancellation because of unresolved legal and commercial issues, representatives for Flatley strongly opposed these claims, labeling the cancellation reports as “outrageous” and affirming, “the show must go on and it will go on.” To ensure the performance proceeds as planned, Flatley’s legal team promptly applied for an injunction to stop any interference, including handing over essential sets or costumes. Mr Justice Simpson granted an interim ruling allowing these conditions to be temporarily enforced pending a further hearing where Switzer’s legal team can present their case.

In a significant development, Flatley has formally terminated his contract with Switzer Consulting regarding the staging of Lord of the Dance. The ongoing legal battles arise from Switzer’s initial lawsuit, which includes disputed allegations about Flatley’s financial management. The judge overseeing the matter clarified that personal attacks related to Flatley’s character or business capability are irrelevant to the case. Flatley, an Irish-American born in Chicago to Irish parents, first gained fame as co-creator and lead performer of Riverdance before developing Lord of the Dance, which brought Irish dancing to an international audience. After retiring from performing in 2016, Flatley has faced significant health challenges, including treatment for malignant melanoma in 2003 and surgery in early 2023 following a cancer diagnosis

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