The future of Michael Flatley’s 30th anniversary production of Lord of the Dance is secure, at least for tonight’s performance in Dublin, following a legal battle with entertainment company Switzer Consulting Ltd. Flatley secured an emergency injunction on Tuesday, , preventing interference with the show, after reports surfaced that the performance at the 3Arena had been cancelled.
The dispute centers around control of the multimillion-euro stage show and allegations that Flatley breached a July 2024 service agreement with Switzer Consulting Ltd, which was contracted to oversee the touring operation. Switzer had previously obtained a temporary injunction against Flatley, but that ban was lifted last week by a judge in Belfast.
The situation escalated quickly, with Flatley’s legal team returning to court after a solicitor for Switzer indicated the Thursday performance was called off “with immediate effect” due to the unresolved legal issues. Flatley’s representatives described the potential cancellation as “outrageous,” insisting “the show must go on and it will go on.”
However, as of , an agreement was reached. The High Court in Belfast heard that Switzer would provide Flatley with a new stage set and costumes to ensure the show proceeds as planned. This commitment came as part of a series of undertakings designed to prevent further disruption.
Specifically, Switzer has agreed not to interfere with Flatley’s use of the intellectual property and rights associated with Lord of the Dance, nor to issue any public statements that could jeopardize the production. The stage set and costumes were to be made available by a Guernsey-based company by 5:00 PM on Wednesday.
In return, Flatley pledged not to damage or tamper with the equipment while in his possession, and to make it available for collection in the same condition by midday on Friday. David Dunlop, counsel for Flatley, stated in court, “Everyone will do all that they can to make tomorrow night a great success.”
Judge Gerald Simpson discharged the emergency injunction granted the previous day based on these agreements. The developments are part of broader legal proceedings initiated by Switzer, which include disputed allegations regarding Flatley’s financial affairs. Flatley has formally terminated the 2024 service agreement and filed a counter action against Switzer Consulting Ltd.
The stakes are high, with 268 performances of Lord of the Dance currently booked across Europe and North America. Switzer Consulting Ltd. Argued that Flatley’s actions put these performances at risk. Court documents revealed that Flatley had received nearly £430,000 in royalties over a 15-month period since the service agreement was signed.
The dispute reportedly began to unravel when Flatley attempted to restructure the arrangement towards the end of last year, described in court as “going on a solo run.” The legal battle underscores the complexities of intellectual property rights and contractual obligations within the high-stakes world of live entertainment.
As of today, , the 3Arena in Dublin has confirmed the show is still scheduled to go ahead. The resolution, while temporary pending a full trial later this year, provides a reprieve for fans and ensures that Flatley’s iconic production will celebrate its 30th anniversary on stage.
