Celine Dion Releases Sign Language Versions of All 20 Songs On 'I Am: Celine Dion' Soundtrack
The team behind the documentary has shared 20 new videos on YouTube featuring Angela "AV" Vilavong interpreting songs like 'My Heart Will Go On,' in celebration of the United Nations’ International Day of Sign Language.
Affiche de "Je suis : Céline Dion"
Celine Dion fans are getting twenty new original videos celebrating her work today (September 23).
For the United Nations’ International Day of Sign Language, the team behind Dion's 2024 documentary I Am: Celine Dion has released new videos on YouTube that feature American Sign Language (ASL) interpretations of the film's soundtrack.
ASL performing artist Angela "AV" Vilavong interprets Redi Hasa's original score for the film, as well as the popular songs of Dion herself, bringing a whole new dimension to hits like "My Heart Will Go On" and "River Deep, Mountain High." Vilavong's interpretations also include LSQ, the sign language used by members of Canadian Francophone communities.
"I’m so touched to have this special chance to share these incredible videos with you. It means the world to me to find new ways for us to connect with each other, in a way that’s open and inclusive," Dion says of the new videos. "My hope is that these videos shine a light on the beauty of creating music for everyone, and that they fill your heart with joy, love, and a rhythm that brings us all closer together.”
The videos were created in collaboration with Sony Music Canada and the documentary's director, Irene Taylor. Taylor is the founder of the Treehouse Project, which promotes accessibility for deaf, hard of hearing, blind and low-vision audiences.
"I grew up using ASL in my family and from a young age I learned music goes beyond sound," Taylor said in a statement. "I hope the world can experience the music of Redi Hasa and Celine Dion in a new way, with AV Vilavong's precious artistry."
Released this summer, I Am: Celine Dion is an intimate look at Dion's journey following her diagnosis with Stiff Person Syndrome. In a message to the Montreal premiere, Dion described it as a love letter to her fans.
The release came shortly before Dion's triumphant return to performance, at the Paris Olympics opening ceremony.
