Celine Dion has announced she will return to the stage this year marking her first full-length concerts since she went public with her stiff person syndrome diagnosis.
The Canadian songstress announced 10 concerts in Paris, to be spread out over September and December 2026, on Monday.
The much‑anticipated announcement followed an ad campaign in the streets of Paris that had fuelled speculation that the French‑speaking Canadian star, best known for her powerful ballads, would stage her comeback there.
"This year, I will receive the best gift of my life. I will have the chance to come and see you and to sing for you again in Paris starting this autumn, in September," Dion, who turned 58 on Monday, said on French TV station France 2.
The announcement was simultaneously advertised through a light show on the Eiffel Tower. Pre-sale tickets will go on sale on April 7, while the general sale will start April 10.
The star has announced the gig after speaking out about her battle with illness Stiff Person Syndrome. This is everything we know about the condition.
What is stiff person syndrome?
Stiff person syndrome (SPS) is a rare progressive neurological condition that affects only one in a million people and causes muscles to tense uncontrollably. It affects twice as many women as men, and it is frequently associated with other autoimmune diseases like vitiligo, thyroiditis and diabetes.
Scientists aren’t sure what causes the disorder, but research suggests it might be the result of a faulty autoimmune response in the brain or spinal cord.
Symptoms of SPS include stiff muscles in the arms and legs, and spasms. Those with the condition are also often more sensitive than usual to noise, touch and emotional stress, and can experience muscle spasms as a result. This might be harmful to their mental health and make them afraid to leave their homes because they don’t want street noises or smells to trigger their bodies.
Over time, SPS sufferers might develop hunched or abnormal postures, and be too disabled to move or walk. Their reflexes will also be affected, which could lead to those with the condition frequently falling, unable to catch themselves.
How is stiff person syndrome diagnosed?
SPS is often misdiagnosed as other neurological diseases because it is so rare. The misdiagnoses might make healthcare professionals think the patient has Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis anxiety or phobias.
A blood test is used to get a definitive diagnosis, which looks at the glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) levels. Those with the condition have higher levels of GAD than normal.
The doctor will also look at the level of antibodies in the blood, as those with SPS will have elevated levels.
Is there a cure for stiff person syndrome?
SPS has no known cure. When treating patients with this illness, physicians mostly use drugs including steroids, muscle relaxants, and sedatives to relieve symptoms. Among other immunotherapies, prescriptions for intravenous immunoglobulin and plasmapheresis may be given.
