Whitney Houston struggles through opening night concert

BRISBANE- Pop diva Whitney Houston has struggled through the opening night of her first Australian tour since 1988, raising questions about the remainder of the concert series.

The 46-year-old actress and singer got through two songs at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre night before appearing breathless and exhausted, taking a break and then carrying a towel with her for the next few songs.

After half a dozen songs, during some of which she coughed, she left the stage to take a break, bringing on her brother, Gary Houston, to sing.

The multi-award winning singer appeared disoriented and failed to properly name some of her backing band as she introduced them to the audience.

In the finale she croaked her way through I Will Always Love You, pausing to get a drink and towel off just as she was about to hit the song's epic high note, which she turned into a soft coo.

The tour is scheduled to continue in Sydney, the Hunter Valley, Melbourne and Adelaide.

- AAP