 As proof of the successful revival of the British hard rock and metal scene , tours and gigs of old and new acts were sold out , both at home and in other European countries , where the movement had spread . Groups arising from the NWOBHM were no longer precluded from world tours and were often chosen as opening acts for major bands in arenas and stadiums . Iron Maiden supported Kiss in Europe in 1980 , embarking on their first world tour as headliners in 1981 , as well as opening for Judas Priest and UFO in the US . Def Leppard visited the US for the first time in 1980 for a three @-@ month trek supporting Pat Travers , Judas Priest , Ted Nugent , AC / DC and Sammy Hagar . Saxon opened for Judas Priest in Europe and for Rush and AC / DC in the US in 1981 . NWOBHM bands were already present on the roster of the famous Reading Festival in 1980 , and were quickly promoted to headliners for the 1981 and 1982 events . The 1980 edition was also remarkable for the violent protests against Def Leppard , whose declared interest in the American market was received badly by British fans . In addition to Reading , a new festival called Monsters of Rock was created in 1980 at Castle Donington , England , to showcase only hard rock and heavy metal acts . 
