Jarmila Novotna was an American actress and lyric soprano, best known for her roles in “The Search,” “Die Nacht der großen Liebe,” and “The Great Caruso.” Born on September 23, 1908, in Prague, Bohemia, Austria-Hungary, she became a celebrated figure in opera and film. She passed away on February 9, 1994, in New York City, New York, USA.
Personal and Family Life
Jarmila Novotna was initially hopeful about returning to Europe after World War II. However, her and her husband’s property in Czechoslovakia was seized by the Communists. After spending more time in America, the couple eventually decided to retire in Vienna. Throughout her life, she maintained a strong connection to her homeland despite the political changes.
Career
Novotna began her singing career at the young age of 17 with the Prague National Opera. She furthered her studies in Milan and joined the Vienna State Opera from 1933 to 1938. After being invited to New York by Arturo Toscanini in 1939, she took on the role of Violetta in “La Traviata,” which led to her signing a contract with the Metropolitan Opera in 1940, where she gained significant acclaim throughout the United States.
Death and Legacy
Jarmila Novotna passed away on February 9, 1994, in New York City. She is remembered as “The Czechoslovakian Nightingale” for her remarkable contributions to music and film. Her legacy continues through her extensive work in opera and her role in shaping the arts for future generations.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Search | 1948-03-26 | Hannah Malik |
| Frasquita | 1934-08-09 | Frasquita |
| The Great Caruso | 1951-04-16 | Maria Selka |
| Die Nacht der großen Liebe | 1933-07-27 | Frau Thormaelen |
| Die verkaufte Braut | 1932-08-18 | Marie |
| Der Kosak und die Nachtigall | 1936-06-01 | Vera Starschenska, Sängerin |
| Brand in der Oper | 1930-10-13 | Primadonna |
| Der Bettelstudent | 1931-02-03 | Laura |
| Der große Zauberer – Max Reinhardt | 1973-10-30 | Self |
| Vyznavači slunce | 1926-01-22 | |
| Skřivánčí píseň | 1933-08-18 | |
| La Dernière Valse | 1936-01-01 | |
| Hans Brinker and the Silver Skates | 1958-02-09 | Dame Brinker |
| The Great Waltz | 1955-11-04 | Mme. Baranska |
| The Ed Sullivan Show | 1948-06-20 | Self – Opera Soprano |
| The Colgate Comedy Hour | 1950-09-10 | Self – Restaurant Owner |