American jazz vocalist Dee Dee Bridgewater has cancelled her Australian tour as a result of a health concern, leaving her unable to fly.

Dee Dee Bridgewater. Photo courtesy of SIMA

The Grammy Award-winning singer and actress was slated to make her first Australian appearance in almost 12 years with headline performances at the Sydney International Women’s Jazz Festival on 22 October,  the Melbourne International Jazz Festival on 24 October and the Perth International Jazz Festival on 27 October.

The Sydney International Women’s Jazz Festival, where Bridgewater was set to open, will now open on 23 October with a performance by American composer and cellist Tomeka Reid with her quartet. Ticketholders will be contacted directly.

“Dee Dee is deeply disappointed that this performance will not take place as scheduled, and appreciates the support and understanding of the audience, presenters and all involved,” shared a representative for Perth International Jazz Festival.