Celine Dion poised for long-awaited return to stage in Paris

PARIS, September 14 ------ Celine Dion was on stage on Saturday to fulfil her dream of returning after years of battling a rare neurological disorder, with thousands of fans from around the world descending on the arena west of Paris.

The 58-year-old French Canadian singer was to perform her first full concert in six years, marking a major milestone in her comeback after Stiff Person Syndrome forced her to cancel shows and left her struggling to sing.

Around 30,000 fans flocked to the Plénitude Arena on the western edge of the French capital for the sold-out opening night of Dion's 26-show run.

The largely female crowd sported sequined dresses and tops, glittered cheeks, and T-shirts emblazoned with the star's image or nods to her biggest hits. "It's unreal to be here!" said Elisabeth Landry, a 38-year-old Quebecer who lives near the star's hometown of Charlemagne. "I was convinced we'd never see her again, especially not embarking on a run of concerts like this."

The show's setlist has been kept under wraps. Just hours before, one of the best-selling singers of all time greeted admirers outside her luxury hotel a short walk from the Arc de Triomphe.

The cheering crowd chanted "Celine! Celine!" as the beaming star blew kisses and made a heart shape with her hands.

Source: manilatimes.net