Jarmila Novotná

Czech Opera Singer and Actress

Jarmila Novotná (1907–1994) was a renowned Czech soprano opera singer and actress who had a significant career in both Europe and the United States. She was celebrated for her beautiful voice and her compelling stage presence. Novotná made her professional debut in 1925 in Prague and went on to perform at many of the world's leading opera houses, including the Vienna State Opera, the Metropolitan Opera in New York, and La Scala in Milan. Her repertoire was diverse, encompassing roles from Mozart to Puccini, and she was particularly admired for her performances in works by Czech composers such as Leoš Janáček and Bedřich Smetana. Beyond her operatic career, Novotná also appeared in films, adding another dimension to her artistic legacy. Her recordings, which include historical performances from 1930 to 1956, continue to be appreciated by opera enthusiasts for their vocal artistry and historical significance.