Celine Dion tribute star hits BBC spotlight after singer's tour announcement ahead of Blackpool show
A Celine Dion tribute artist starring in a Blackpool-produced show has been thrust into the national spotlight after appearing on the BBC following news of the superstar’s return to touring.
Lisa Harter, who leads the hit production Celebrating Celine - A New Day, has been inundated with enquiries after featuring on BBC News and radio, where she shared her excitement at the global icon’s comeback.
Speaking on the BBC, Lisa said the announcement had been an emotional moment for fans.
She said: “It’s so, so amazing. I mean, I’m one of millions and millions of people who are so excited and hoping we’ll be one of the lucky ones to get tickets.
“It’s quite emotional. I sobbed watching the documentary thinking I’m never going to see my idol in person again.”
Celine Dion’s return comes after her widely publicised health struggles, which were documented in a recent film.
Lisa told the BBC she had been inspired by the singer’s determination to return to the stage.
“To turn that around, with all the hard work she’s put in to be able to come back and do these shows, I just think it’s incredible,” she said.
“I was lucky enough to meet her last year and she was just absolutely incredible. Physically she is very, very fit and very strong.
“If anybody was going to beat this to the best of their ability, it was going to be Celine Dion.”
Lisa, a lifelong superfan who also bears a striking resemblance to the star, has built a successful career performing as the Canadian singer.
Her show, produced by Blackpool-based Viva Entertainments, has toured across the UK and continues to grow in popularity.
Martin Heywood, director of Viva Entertainments, said he was delighted to see Lisa gaining national attention.
He said: “We’re so proud to share that our very own Lisa Harter was featured on BBC News, speaking all things Celine Dion’s exciting new tour announcement.
“As the buzz continues to build, this is just the beginning of something truly special.”
The production is set to reach new heights this week with a West End debut at London’s Adelphi Theatre, before returning to Blackpool later this year.
Lisa will perform at the Winter Gardens’ Opera House on Friday, August 28 as part of her ongoing tour.
The show features a live band, large-scale visuals and performances of some of Celine Dion’s biggest hits, including My Heart Will Go On, Because You Loved Me and River Deep, Mountain High.
Looking ahead, Lisa is also preparing to take the show international with a tour of Canada planned for November.
Despite her growing success, she told the BBC her admiration for Celine Dion remains at the heart of everything she does.
“I think she’s just absolutely unique,” Lisa said.
“She’s been herself, she’s been so genuine and so honest with her fans and with her music, and I think that’s what really attracts me to her.”