"We are seeking damages in millions of crowns for the advance ticket sale revenues," Radek Coufal, a lawyer at Pragokoncert announced.

Flatley gained international fame with the hit shows Lord of the Dance and Feet of Flame. They combined Irish folk steps with jazz and tap, accompanied by a narrator and rock and Irish folk music. His new show, Celtic Tiger, tells the story of Irish resilience during a history of oppression.

The show will premiere in New York City Sept. 27, but Flatley scheduled a series of previews beforehand in Central Europe — though promotional posters here later billed the Prague event as the world premiere.

"I chose Prague for a preview because the region has strong Celtic roots," Flatley said in July.

Rain prevented Flatley and his ensemble from rehearsing until the day of the show, July 12. When he finally got onstage, however, he pulled the plug, calling a roof prepared by promoters inadequate.

"The stage was unsafe, and despite various attempts to remedy this with the promoter, there was no alternative but to cancel," a statement on Flatley's Web site reads.

Officials at Pragokoncert disagree, saying the stage met Flatley's specifications. "Flatley refused to perform without any well-grounded reasons," said spokeswoman Martina Benesová.

Pragokoncert rescheduled the show for Aug. 27, but Aug. 5 Pragokoncert said talks with Flatley, who had already been paid, had broken down.

Neither Flatley nor Pragokoncert discussed details of their dispute regarding the roof or the advance that Flatley had been paid.

Flatley's performances involve dozens of dancers, Jumbotron screens and complex light and sound displays.