Legal threats have forced the cancellation of The Legend of Dio: A Metal Musical, a highly anticipated tribute to late metal frontman Ronnie James Dio, which was set to debut in Melbourne this March. According to show promoters, the production was cancelled after they received legal threats from Dio’s label.
“Sound Chaser Productions regrets to announce that, due to licensing issues, The Legend of Dio – A Metal Musical will no longer be going ahead,” write promoters in a statement issued via their official Facebook page. Promoters also issued an apology to Niji Entertainment Group, the label established by Dio and his wife, Wendy Gaxiola.
“We apologise to Niji Entertainment Group and express our desire to work with them in future,” promoters add. “Dio fans are encouraged to keep enjoying Ronnie James Dio’s wonderful music and maintain their respect for Niji Entertainment and Dio’s legacy. Long Live Rock’n’Roll!”
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Niji Productions have issued their own statement in which insist that they had nothing to do with The Legend of Dio. “We want to set the record straight,” they write. “Niji Productions has nothing to do with The Legend of Dio: A Metal Musical that has been advertised.”
“This came as a shock to us as it did to most of you too,” they continue. “Our legal team has sent a cease and desist to the company in Australia that is infringing on the copyright of Ronnie James Dio’s songs, likeness and trademarked logo.”
It’s not clear if Sound Chaser Productions intend on bringing the musical back once the proper channels are pursued. The show, written, directed by, and starring William James Smith from Melbourne’s own H.M.A.S Vendetta, was set to feature songs throughout Dio’s musical career including his tenure with Dio, Black Sabbath, and Rainbow.
