The 1942 film Izpitanie marked a shift in the career of Nadya Nozharova, a Bulgarian performer who transitioned from the stage to the screen. Over a nearly century-long life, she navigated diverse roles as an operetta singer, Spanish countess, and American businessperson, leaving behind a professional legacy that spanned from the theatres of Bulgaria to the real estate markets of the United States.
Early Stage Career in Bulgaria
Born in Pleven in 1916, Nozharova pursued an education at the American girls' school in Lovech. She entered the performing arts in 1934 by joining the Angel Sladkarov operetta theatre. This company toured extensively across Bulgaria, providing her with initial exposure to the industry. After the theatre group disbanded, she performed with the Odeon, Bulgaria, and Corporate Theatres. She later relocated to Germany to receive formal vocal training.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Marriages and Titles
Nozharova married Angel Sladkarov at the Troyan Monastery in 1936, though the marriage ended in divorce by 1940. That same year, she married a Spanish diplomat serving in Vatican City, who held the title of Papal count de Navarro. This union granted her the title of countess, and the couple resided in Monte Carlo. Following her husband's death in 1949, she emigrated to the United States.
Business and Philanthropy
In 1953, she married Sid Farber, a real-estate and building company owner. The couple constructed a holiday residence on St Croix in the US Virgin Islands, designed in a faux Moorish style. Following Sid Farber's death in 1985, she married Yuriy Farber. Throughout her time in the United States, she engaged in charitable activities, supporting the American Hospital in Paris, the Princess Grace hospital in Monaco, the Red Cross in Monaco, and organizations assisting Venezuelan and Jewish immigrants.
Final Years
Nozharova died on 18 April 2014 on Long Island. At the time of her passing at the age of 98, she was survived by her husband Yuriy Farber, her daughter Evgenia, and three grandchildren.
Fast facts
- Born: 1916, Pleven, Bulgaria
- Died: 18 April 2014, Long Island
- Occupations: Actor, singer, businessperson, art collector
- Notable Film: Izpitanie (1942)
- Known as: Countess Nadya de Navarro Farber
- Citizenship: Bulgaria, United States
Questions readers ask
How did Nadya Nozharova obtain her title?
She became a countess after marrying a Spanish diplomat in 1940 who held the title of Papal count de Navarro.
What was her primary occupation?
She held multiple roles throughout her life, starting as an operetta singer and actress in Bulgaria before moving into business and philanthropy in the United States.
Achievements
- Worked as actor, film actor and businessperson
