Céline Dion has announced her return to the stage, four years after she was diagnosed with an incurable condition that affected her singing voice and her ability to walk.

The star, known for power ballads like My Heart Will Go On and Because You Loved Me, will play a 10-night residency at the 40,000-capacity Paris La Défense Arena in September and October.

The announcement came on the day of her 58th birthday. In a message on her Instagram page, Dion called her comeback the best gift of my life.

I'm so ready to do this, she told fans. I'm feeling good, I'm strong, I'm feeling excited, obviously, [and] of course, a little nervous.

Addressing her medical condition, Dion said: I'm doing great, managing my health, feeling good. I'm singing again, even doing a little bit of dancing. She expressed her gratitude towards her supporters, stating: Over these last few years, every day that's gone by, I felt your prayers and support, your kindness and love.

Dion, who is one of the best-selling artists of all time, has not performed live since a show in Newark, New Jersey on 8 March, 2020. Her Courage tour was subsequently cut short due to the outbreak of the Covid pandemic, before she was diagnosed with Stiff Person Syndrome, leading to the cancellation of all future shows.

For her live return, all concert dates are separated by several days, presumably to avoid undue strain on her physical health. Tickets will go on sale from 7 April, with high demand expected.

Plans for the comeback were initially leaked by the French-Canadian newspaper La Presse last week, followed by fans spotting posters of her lyrics around Paris. Recently, the Eiffel Tower lit up with the message Paris, je suis prête (Paris, I am ready), coinciding with a playlist of her hit songs.

Céline Dion announced her diagnosis with Stiff Person Syndrome in December 2022, sharing that it has affected "every aspect of my daily life." The condition is a rare neurological disease that can cause debilitating muscle spasms and affects mobility. Despite the challenges, Dion has worked diligently to reclaim her health and has made significant progress as she prepares for her upcoming performances.

Her concert dates will include performances on September 12, 16, 19, 23, 26, 30, October 3, 7, 10, and 14, all at La Défense Arena in Paris.