Celine Dion cancels shows on doctor's orders

Grammy-winning singer Celine Dion has had to cancel a string of upcoming shows in Las Vegas due to a virus-triggered problem with her vocal chords.

She was due to sing at Caesars Palace in a series of shows through March 18, but must now rest her voice for six to eight weeks.

The order came from laryngeal physiology expert Gerald Berke in Los Angeles.

Dion "flew to Los Angeles on Monday afternoon and had a thorough examination at Professor Berke's clinic," a statement confirmed, adding that the doctor "diagnosed Celine with weakness in her right vocal chord, secondary to a viral illness."

Professor Berke prescribed resting her vocal chords "in order for Celine to completely recover from this condition," said the statement.

"I tried to sing at my sound check last week, and I had no control of my voice whatsoever," said Dion.

"We thought that after a few days rest I would improve but it wasn't getting any better... I guess it was worse than I thought. I'm fortunate that I was able to see Professor Berke.

"He identified what was causing the problems I was having, and he assured me that with the amount of rest he prescribed, I would be back to 100 per cent."

She added: "Obviously this is the worst thing for a singer... not being able to do your shows. I feel worse knowing that I'm disappointing my fans. I'm so sorry... I hope they forgive me."

Dion expects to be back on form for her next run of Vegas shows from June 9 to August 19.

Fans with tickets for the cancelled shows will be offered refunds.

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