Celine Dion is preparing to confirm her long-awaited return to live performance today, on the occasion of her 58th birthday, with a residency in Paris this fall.
But her ongoing battle with a rare neurological disorder means she may have to perform seated.
The Canadian icon, who has not performed a full concert since March 2020, will announce ten shows at the Défense Arena in Paris, one of the largest indoor venues in Europe with a capacity of 45,000 people.
She is expected to perform two shows a week, but health problems related to her stiff person syndrome, a condition that causes severe muscle rigidity and violent spasms, have led insurers to impose strict conditions on her travel.
“To ensure the concerts, Céline and her team have agreed to non-negotiable conditions, including a performance limit and regular medical checks until the final show,” said a source.
The ability to perform from a chair would place Dion in the company of other musical icons who have made similar adaptations in recent years.
Ozzy Osbourne performed seated on a throne at Black Sabbath’s farewell concert last summer, and Phil Collins attended Genesis’ final tour of 2021.
Dion has been open about her determination to get back on stage despite everything her condition has put her through.
In his Prime Video 2024 documentary I am: Celine Dionshe was unambiguous about what performing on stage means to her. “If I can’t run, I’ll walk. If I can’t walk, I’ll crawl. I miss it so much,” she said.
Since stepping away from touring, she has made only two brief public appearances, at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics and at a fashion show that same year.
This announcement marks the most important step in his return.
