Tandy MacKenzie: Hawaii’s Greatest Opera Star

A New Documentary

Tandy MacKenzie: Hawaii’s Greatest Opera Star traces the life of the Maui-born tenor from his humble origin in Hana in 1892 to his tragic death in Los Angeles in 1963. The film covers the Hawaiian singer’s years at Kamehameha Schools, his discovery by American opera star John McCormick, his training in Canada, and his appearances across the Globe.

The film highlights both his personal and professional struggles. Despite his many achievements on the opera stage, on radio, television, and film, he was challenged by issues of self esteem, conflicts with his first wife, the impacts of history including his expulsion from Nazi Germany, his gnawing desire to sing at The Met, and, sadly, a fatal crash on the Hollywood Freeway.

Tandy never forgot his Hawaii roots and revisited his people with performances on all islands a number of times including inspirational concerts for the Hansen’s Disease patients at Kalaupapa, Molokai. After every operatic performance Tandy always sang a handful of old Hawaiian tunes including Ka Makani Kaili Aloha, his favorite, dedicated to his mother and beloved homeland.