Céline Dion arrives in Paris for long-awaited residency, launching 16-concert run next week
The Quebec superstar touched down Friday ahead of her comeback series starting September 12 at Plenitude Arena — her return to performing after six years sidelined by a rare neurological condition.
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Céline Dion arrived in Paris on Friday to begin preparations for a career-defining residency that marks her return to the stage after more than six years away.
The Quebec-born singer touched down at Bourget Airport at mid-day and headed to the Royal Monceau, a luxury hotel near the Champs-Élysées, where she will stay during the residency. Admirers greeted her as she arrived, calling out encouragement as she acknowledged fans with a wave.
"I've always felt supported since the first day and that's a story that continues," Dion said in remarks to BFMTV. "It's my second home — I appreciate that you're here. Thank you so much." Her connection to France stretches back to the start of her international career in the 1980s.
Dion was diagnosed with stiff-person syndrome in August 2022, a rare neurological condition that forced her to cancel performances and step away from public life. The Paris residency represents her official return to performing.
Beginning September 12, she will perform a series of 16 concerts at Plenitude Arena in Nanterre, a sprawling covered venue on the outskirts of Paris. She plans three shows per week — Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays — with each performance drawing more than 30,000 spectators. An additional 10 concerts are scheduled for May 2027.
The comeback has generated worldwide anticipation among fans seeking tickets. With roughly 260 million albums sold globally, Dion remains one of music's most successful recording artists. Her performances of "My Heart Will Go On" and "Pour Que Tu M'aimes Encore" are among the most recognizable songs in popular music.
Dion's most recent public performance was in July 2024, when she sang Edith Piaf's "L'Hymne à l'Amour" at the Paris Olympic Games opening ceremony at the Eiffel Tower.
By the numbers
When does Céline Dion's Paris residency begin?
Céline Dion's residency at Plenitude Arena in Nanterre begins on September 12, 2026.
How many concerts are scheduled for the Paris residency?
Céline Dion will perform 16 concerts beginning September 12, 2026, with an additional 10 concerts scheduled for May 2027.
How long was Céline Dion away from performing?
Céline Dion stepped away from performing for more than six years after her diagnosis with stiff-person syndrome in August 2022.
When was Céline Dion's most recent public performance before this residency?
Céline Dion's most recent public performance was in July 2024, when she sang 'L'Hymne à l'Amour' at the Paris Olympic Games opening ceremony.
