Celine Dion has cancelled the remaining 42 dates on her Courage World Tour after suffering “severe and persistent” muscle spasms which have prevented her from performing, it was announced. The Canadian singer, 55, is being treated for a rare neurological condition called Stiff Person Syndrome and is “working hard on her recovery” but has cancelled the remaining tour dates for 2023 and 2024.
On Friday, a statement said the singer had been “unable to successfully prepare and perform” for the remainder of the tour which had been scheduled to run from August 26 in Amsterdam, with back-to-back shows until her final performance of 2023 in Helsinki on October 4. Dion was also planning to kick-off her 2024 performances in Prague on March 6, with shows in Germany, Ireland, Croatia, Switzerland, Hungry, Poland, Austria and ending at the O2 in London – all of which have been cancelled.
She had been due to come to the UK with shows in Manchester on April 9/10, Glasgow on April 13/14, Birmingham April 17/18 and London April 21/22 all in 2024.
The chart-topping singer said: “I’m so sorry to disappoint all of you once again. “I’m working really hard to build back my strength, but touring can be very difficult even when you’re 100%.
“It’s not fair to you to keep postponing the shows, and even though it breaks my heart, it’s best that we cancel everything now until I’m really ready to be back on stage again. I want you all to know, I’m not giving up … and I can’t wait to see you again!”
Fans rushed to show her support. Flavia Calina said: "We love you Celine, take good care of yourself your health is the most important and precious thing we are praying for your healing."
Caeline and Dayna added: "My dear Celine I miss you immensely and your health comes first. I was lucky enough to see your Courage show twice and will be forever grateful. Thank you for the great memories that I will always cherish."
Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS) is a rare neurological disorder characterized by stiffness, muscle spasms, and heightened sensitivity to stimuli. It is also known as Stiff-Man Syndrome, as it was initially described in men, but it can affect both males and females.
The exact cause of Stiff Person Syndrome is not fully understood, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder. In individuals with SPS, the immune system mistakenly attacks the central nervous system, specifically the inhibitory neurons responsible for controlling muscle activity. This results in an overactive state of the muscles, leading to stiffness and spasms.
The most prominent symptom of Stiff Person Syndrome is muscle stiffness, particularly in the trunk and limbs. This stiffness can cause difficulties with movement and may lead to a characteristic "stiff" or "rigid" posture. Muscle spasms, often triggered by external stimuli or emotional distress, are also common. These spasms can be severe and may cause falls or injuries.
