OBHS Choir 'Mandate' Performs in Star-Studded Celebration of Dunedin’s Voices

By OBHS | Posted: Monday May 25, 2026

On Monday, 11 May, the Otago Boys' High School choir, 'Mandate', took to the stage at the Glenroy Auditorium to participate in a spectacular musical event: Jonathan Lemalu: Celebrating Dunedin's Voices.

The concert was a showcase of the rich vocal talent within our community, bringing together local choirs and singers for an evening of exceptional music. Alongside 'Mandate', the audience was treated to performances by the Cantores Choir, the University Capping Sextet, Kieran Kelly, Opera Otago, the Dunedin RSA Choir, the Southern Youth Choir, voice students from the University of Otago School of Performing Arts, and acclaimed pianist Terence Dennis.

The event held extra significance for the headline act; just two days prior to the concert, world-renowned bass-baritone Jonathan Lemalu was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Music from the University of Otago in recognition of his outstanding career and contribution to the arts.

Our boys performed exceptionally well, proudly representing Otago Boys' High School on a grand stage alongside some of the region’s finest musicians. It was an inspiring experience for all the students involved.

Following the conclusion of the concert, OBHS choir members Sanj, Liam, and Oban had the unique opportunity to meet and be photographed with Dr. Lemalu.

For a full write-up on the event, you can read the Otago Daily Times article here: https://www.odt.co.nz/the-star/lemalu-brings-music