Flatley has produced several shows based around Irish dancing

Flatley has cancelled all 20 European dates of his Celtic Tiger show.

The 49-year-old was checked into The London Clinic two weeks ago. He is thought to have a viral infection.

His publicist, Geraldine Roche, stressed said his condition was not life-threatening. A spokeswoman said he was keen to "get back on stage".

'Over the moon'

US-born Flatley has not yet been given a release date from hospital, but is expected to make a full recovery.

"He has been inundated with messages of support," said the spokeswoman.

She added that he was "over the moon" with the response.

"Dance is his whole life. He was really looking forward to the tour. He wants to get out of hospital and get back on stage."

Flatley married a fellow dancer in Ireland last month.

Whirlwind romance

Father Aidan Troy, a close friend of Flatley who officiated at his marriage ceremony in October, said he spoke to the star when he was admitted to hospital.

"I'm obviously concerned, having just been involved in his wedding.

"Genuinely I'm shocked. Without being unkind, he's not 18. I thought initially it may be exhaustion or stress."

He added that Flatley said he was in good spirits and was confident about his health.

The star, who made his name in the Riverdance show, married Niamh O'Brien, 32, in October, after a short courtship. It is his second marriage.

Earlier this year Flatley revealed he had been treated for facial skin cancer in 2003, but said he was completely cured.