The “It’s All Coming Back to Me Now” singer began the video with a health update for fans, after being diagnosed with stiff person syndrome in late 2022.
WASHINGTON — Celine Dion is officially set for a short residency in Paris, announcing 10 shows in the city later this year.
Dion announced the concert dates on Monday in an emotional birthday video. This is her first return to live performances since she sang “Hymne A L’Amour” by the Eiffel Tower at the Opening Ceremony at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
The “Coming Back to Me” singer began the video with a health update for fans, after being diagnosed with stiff person syndrome in late 2022.
“You know, in my career, I’ve recorded a lot of birthday messages. But this is the first time I’ve ever recorded one for my own birthday,” Dion said in a video shared on X. “It’s been kind of hard keeping it a secret for myself, but I wanted to let you know that I’m doing great. Managing my own health, feeling good and singing again, even doing a little bit of dancing, obviously, you know, I love it so much.”
“I have to tell you something very important. Over these last few years, every day that’s come by, I felt your prayers and support, the kindness, and I loved it,” she said. “Even in my most difficult times, you were there for me. You’ve helped me in ways that I can’t even describe, and I’m truly so fortunate to have your support. I’ve missed you so much.”
“So this year I’m getting the best gift of my life, I’m getting the chance to see you, to perform for you once again in Paris,” she announced. “Beginning in September this year. I’m so happy, I’m so ready to do this.”
Dion expressed that she was feeling “strong” and “excited” to perform again. The singer canceled her tour following her stiff person syndrome diagnosis and has kept a very low profile in public.
“I am grateful to all of you. I can’t wait to see you again,” she said. “well, happy birthday to me. I love you all and I’ll see you soon.”
Paris La Defense Arena is the largest concert hall in Europe, accommodating about 40,000 people.
Celine Dion Paris concert dates
The singer announced 10 shows in Paris between September and October at Paris’ La Defense Area.. Pre-sale begins on April 7 and fans can register now until April 2.
What is stiff person syndrome?
Stiff-person syndrome is a condition characterized by muscles that tense uncontrollably, and a heightened sensitivity to stimuli such as noise, touch, and emotional distress, which can set off muscle spasms, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
“Unfortunately, these spasms affect every aspect of my daily life,” Dion said at the time. “Sometimes causing difficulty when I walk and not allowing me to use my vocal cords to sing the way I’m used to.”
The rare neurological disorder causes rigid muscles and painful muscle spasms, which were affecting Dion’s ability to walk and sing. In June, at the premiere of the documentary “I Am: Celine Dion,” she told The Associated Press that returning required therapy, “physically, mentally, emotionally, vocally.”
“So that’s why it takes a while,” she said. “But absolutely why we’re doing this because I’m already a little bit back.”