Nikolai Dimitrov Binev was a renowned Bulgarian actor, renowned for his captivating performances in both theater and cinema. Born on July 5, 1934, in Sliven, Bulgaria, he began his artistic journey by graduating from the prestigious National Academy for Theatre and Film Art, Sofia, Bulgaria in the class of the esteemed Professor Krastyo Mirsky.
Throughout his illustrious career, Nikolai Binev was recognized for his extensive filmography and theatrical productions, as well as his work with the Youth Theatre, which was later renamed in his honor in 2006. He had the privilege of collaborating with foreign directors and actors, including the renowned Catherine Deneuve, in the film "East - West".
Nikolai Binev's dedication to the Youth Theatre was unwavering, and he remained faithful to the institution, performing exclusively on its stage for his entire career. He was involved in numerous adaptations and audio dramatizations of children's stories, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
In 2004, the Youth Theatre and his wife, Domna Ganeva, released a CD titled "Nikolai Binev singing", featuring arias from operas by Verdi and Cimarosa, songs from the musical "Yesterday" by Lyubomir Denev, and children's songs by Valeri Petrov and Georgi Genkov, among others.
Throughout his career, Nikolai Binev received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Prize "Asker" twice, once for leading actor in 1995 and again for lifetime achievement in 2000. He was also a winner of the Awards "Golden Rose", "Golden Pen", "Golden Muse", Union of the Bulgarian actors and the Union of Bulgarian Filmmakers' Awards; Best Actor Award for the movie "Night with the White Horses" - 1985.
Tragically, Nikolai Binev passed away on December 8, 2003, in Sofia, Bulgaria, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and entertain audiences to this day.
