Canadian pop singer Celine Dion has made the difficult decision to cancel the European stretch of her highly anticipated world tour. The cancellation comes as a result of a medical condition that has made it challenging for her to perform at her best.
Stiff-Person Syndrome Diagnosis and Previous Postponements
Four months ago, the 55-year-old Quebecoise singer shared with her fans that she had been diagnosed with a rare neurological disorder known as stiff-person syndrome. This disorder causes muscle spasms and has previously led her to postpone some European shows on her Courage World Tour.
Apology and Challenges Faced
Expressing her regret, Celine Dion took to Instagram to apologize to her devoted fans. She acknowledged the disappointment caused by the cancellation and emphasized her commitment to regain her strength. The singer, best known for the iconic Titanic movie theme song “My Heart Will Go On,” also highlighted the difficulties of touring, even under normal circumstances.
Tour Details and Refunds
The European stretch of Celine Dion’s tour was scheduled to include 42 shows in seven cities from late August to early October, with an additional 17 cities planned for the spring of 2024. Ticket holders for these shows will receive full refunds.
Understanding Stiff-Person Syndromes
Stiff-person syndrome is a medical condition characterized by muscle rigidity and heightened sensitivity to sound, touch, and emotional stimuli, which can trigger spasms. The condition has had a significant impact on Celine Dion’s ability to perform and previously led to the postponement of her Las Vegas residency in October 2021.
Background and Inspiration for the Tour
Celine Dion’s Courage World Tour, her first in the United States in a decade, began in Quebec City in September 2019. The tour coincided with the release of her latest album, titled “Courage.” The album’s name was inspired by the passing of her husband and manager, Rene Angelil, in 2016, after a battle with throat cancer. The couple had three children together.
By making this tour cancellation announcement, Celine Dion has demonstrated her commitment to her health and well-being, as well as her dedication to providing the best possible performances for her fans. She appreciates the understanding and support of her loyal audience as she navigates the challenges posed by her medical condition.