She is so back! Ballet BC dancers join forces with Canadian icon Céline Dion in a special dance film featured on stage during her 2026/2027 residency in Paris.
And we’re thrilled to be part of the moment.
This summer, five Ballet BC dancers — Imani Frazier, Kelsey Lewis, Sidney Chuckas, Joziah German, and Emanuel Dostine — joined fellow artists Zack Sommer and Donnie Duncan to capture a special project with Céline herself. The short dance film airs onscreen during her anticipated return to the stage in Paris, featuring improvisation by the dancers alongside choreography from SWAY, a work by Ballet BC Artistic Director Medhi Walerski.
Catch a glimpse of the film, along with behind-the-scenes images of Céline with the dancers here.
Naomi Stikeman, Céline’s longtime physical performance coach and Ballet BC’s former Artistic Producer, played a key role in bringing Ballet BC and Céline together. A former professional dancer with the National Ballet of Canada who also performed on Céline’s A New Day tour, Naomi brings a deep understanding of movement to their work together, helping Céline build strength and confidence as she prepared to return to performing live. Read more about Naomi’s work with Céline in HELLO here.
The connection between Ballet BC and Céline extends beyond this project. The singer first encountered Medhi Walerski’s work several years ago when she witnessed his duet Silent Tides, and in spring 2025, Ballet BC dancers had the opportunity to spend time with Céline after being invited to share a performance in honour of her birthday.
Being part of this incredible moment is an honour for Ballet BC and the artists involved, reminding us of the power of creativity, collaboration, and a shared love for dance.
Merci et félicitations, Céline!
