Tenor Lwazi Hlati hails from Johannesburg, South Africa. He earned a Master of Music degree and a Performer’s Diploma from Southern Methodist University, a Graduate Artistic Certificate in Opera Performance from the University of North Texas, and a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Art from Tshwane University of Technology in South Africa. His accolades include winning first place, along with the award for the best art song presentation, in the inaugural Duncan Williams Voice Competition, held by the New York City Opera and Manhattan School of Music; and being named the 2024 “Opera Idol” by Connecticut Opera. Mr. Hlati has received recognition for his performances of roles in various operas, including Ferrando in Così fan tutte, Fenton in Falstaff, Don José in Carmen, Mitch in A Streetcar Named Desire, Prunier in La rondine, and Miguel in Offenbach’s opera Pépito. Additionally, he sang Edgardo in Lucia di Lammermoor, Porgy in Porgy and Bess, and Gastone in La traviata with Fort Worth Opera. His collaborations extend to Dallas Opera, Fort Worth Opera, Opera North, and the Lewisville Lake Symphony, among others. He is thrilled to be joining Chautauqua Opera Company for their 2025 season.