Tongan tenor Manase Latu is the 2024 recipient of the Ryman Healthcare Dame Malvina Major Foundation Mina Foley Award.
The award celebrates emerging talent in the world of Opera.
The Ōtahuhu raised singer is currently based in New York City, however Latu will return to New Zealand to take on the title role in New Zealand Opera’s production of “Le Comte Ory,” which debuted at the end of May in Auckland and will continue its season in Wellington and Christchurch.
This milestone marks his first leading role with New Zealand Opera, a significant achievement in his advancing career.
Latu was also a Dame Malvina Major Foundation Studio Artist with New Zealand Opera during the 2017-18 season.
After completing his studies at the University of Auckland and the Royal College of Music in London (2020-23), Manase trained at the Metropolitan Opera, New York as part of the Lindemann Young Artist Development Programme.
Chief Executive Officer of Ryman Healthcare NZ, Cheyne Chalmers is elated with the selection of Latu as this year’s recipient.
“At Ryman, we’re committed to making a positive difference in our local communities…we wish Manase all the best.”
Dame Malvina Major says she is thrilled to honour Manase with this award, especially because it enables him to return home to perform a leading role in a New Zealand opera.
“His exceptional talent and dedication to his craft exemplify the spirit of Mina Foley, and we look forward to his continued contributions to the world of opera.”
