Heavy metal pioneers, Iron Maiden, made a stop in Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena for two sold out nights as part of the 2026 extension of their Run For Your Lives world tour. In light of recent news, front man extraordinaire, Bruce Dickinson, made the band’s position clear, by stating they traveled over Lake Ontario to arrive in Toronto.
Opening the night was another legend, Dave Mustaine, and his band, Megadeth, who have joined Iron Maiden as part of their multi-year farewell tour. They set the tone (and volume) of the night early with heavy hitters like “Hangar 18” and “Holy Wars… The Punishment Due.”
Iron Maiden delivered 17 songs across their 2+ hour set that comprised of songs spanning their first nine albums. This included metal classics like “Run To The Hills,” “Fear of the Dark,” and “Aces High.” Dickinson, now 68 years old, impressively continued to offer the same fast-paced, high-octane performance we’ve admired for decades, all while delivering his signature airy vocals. A feat that would be difficult for someone half his age.
The most significant adjustment to this tour, was it being the first to feature drummer, Simon Dawson, after the retirement of long-time drummer, Nicko McBrain, following a stroke he suffered in 2023. This marks the first lineup change in Iron Maiden since 1982.
Since their last tour, Iron Maiden has clearly made a significant upgrade in digital production, offering immersive visuals that especially boost the storytelling of epics like “Rime of the Ancient Mariner” and “Hallowed Be Thy Name.” Of course, a Maiden show wouldn’t be complete without a couple animatronic Eddies (the band’s mascot) to come out to battle band members mid-song.
Iron Maiden closed these unforgettable shows with “Wasted Years,” a song their dedicated fanbase love to join in singing along to. They made it ever clear that despite an already 50-year career, Iron Maiden have no plans of slowing down or wasting any years at all.
Photos and review by Adam Harrison
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