Michael Flatley Regains Control of ‘Lord Of The Dance’ After Belfast Court Ruling
Table of Contents
A court in Belfast overturned a legal order that had restricted Michael Flatley’s involvement with his globally renowned production, Lord Of The Dance, paving the way for the show’s 30th-anniversary tour to proceed as planned.
The temporary injunction, previously secured against the Irish dancer and choreographer, was discharged by Mr Justice Simpson at the Chancery Court in the Royal Courts of Justice on Thursday. The legal challenge stemmed from civil proceedings initiated by Switzer Consulting, which alleged a breach of contract related to an agreement granting them operational control over the dance shows.
Flatley, who rose to international fame with his performance of Riverdance at Eurovision in 1994, expressed his elation following the ruling. “I’d just like to say thank God, I’m delighted with the judge’s decision today,” he stated outside the court, visibly moved. “I won’t be in the car 10 seconds and I’ll be calling all my dancers, all of the cast and crew. All their families have flown in and we’re going to lift the roof on Thursday. This will be the greatest version of this show that you will ever see. I’m absolutely delighted.” He affirmed that he is “100%” back in control of the production.
Dispute Over Intellectual Property and Management Services
The core of the dispute centers on a terms of service agreement where Flatley transferred the intellectual property rights for Lord Of The Dance to Switzer Consulting. In exchange, Switzer was obligated to provide essential business management services to Flatley, including accounting and payroll.
Earlier in the week, legal counsel for Switzer Consulting, Gary McHugh KC, argued the injunction was necessary to safeguard the company’s interests. He contended that Flatley’s financial circumstances raised concerns about his ability to cover potential damages.
30th Anniversary Tour Set to Launch
The Lord Of The Dance 30th-anniversary tour is scheduled to begin next week, on February 5, at Dublin’s 3 Arena. The production will then continue throughout 2026 across Europe and the United States.
Flatley’s swift response to the court’s decision underscores his commitment to the show and its legacy. The dancer and choreographer’s return to full control promises a renewed energy for the production as it embarks on its milestone tour.
