Celine Dion’s illness leads to the cancellation of concerts

Canadian singer Celine Dion has canceled all of her concerts scheduled until early spring 2024.

In a statement Friday, Dion announced that all remaining Courage World Tour shows have been canceled due to an ongoing health issue.

“I’m so sorry to disappoint you all once again,” Dion said in a statement. “I’m working very hard to rebuild my strength, but touring can be very difficult even when you’re at 100 per cent.”

Dion, 55, was diagnosed last year with a rare neurological condition known as stiff person syndrome (SPS).

WHAT IS WRINKLE SYNDROME

PSS is a neurological condition that affects a person’s muscles and, in Dion’s case, it impairs their ability to perform.

People with SPS have described the condition as “excruciating” and say it causes “debilitating” pain due to increased sensitivity to noise and touch. The US National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke says that SPS has “characteristics” of an autoimmune disease.

“It’s not fair for you to keep postponing the shows, and even though it breaks my heart, it’s better that we cancel everything now until I’m really ready to get back on stage,” said the Canadian Friday icon. “I want you all to know that I’m not giving up…and I can’t wait to see you again!”

Last month, Dion released new music and revealed her acting debut in a new romantic comedy. Her first single, “Love Again”, was the title track of an upcoming movie where she plays a supporting role.

The film tells the story of a woman who finds solace after the sudden death of her fiancé by texting her old cell phone number, to find a new connection with another man who has been reassigned the number to her. .

A total of 42 shows have been canceled. Tickets will be refunded through the original point of sale, according to the tour operators.

Ticket holders with additional questions are asked to contact their original point of purchase.

With files from Natasha O’Neill of CTV News and Lillian Roy of CTV News Montreal