Flatley Court Fight Over Lord Of The Dance

A legal dispute has erupted between choreographer Michael Flatley and Switzer Consulting concerning the management and control of 'Lord Of The Dance'. Switzer Consulting has secured a temporary injunction against Flatley, alleging a breach of contract related to their agreement to manage the stage show. Flatley's legal representatives contend that Switzer is essentially a management agent entitled only to fees, and that the production is at risk of "falling apart" without his creative input.

During a court hearing in Belfast, it was revealed that Switzer Consulting is seeking to control the creative aspects of the show, a claim Flatley's lawyers assert is beyond Switzer's contractual rights. They argue that Flatley transferred intellectual property rights to Switzer, who in turn agreed to provide business management services, including finances. The fees stipulated were £35,000 monthly for the initial 24 months, escalating thereafter.

Further complicating matters, Flatley's team presented evidence suggesting Switzer Consulting recently restated its accounts, significantly increasing its net asset value to approximately £2.1 million by attributing substantial worth to the 'Lord Of The Dance' intellectual property. This valuation shift has raised questions about the company's financial standing and its claims. The upcoming full hearing on Wednesday is expected to determine the continuation of the injunction, potentially allowing Flatley to resume his involvement before the show's Dublin performance on February 5. A separate legal filing by Flatley also seeks a Declaration of Trust, asserting his sole beneficial shareholder status in Switzer.