Henri Eugène Vantard, known professionally as Henri Varna, was a prominent French comedian, lyricist, theater director, and filmmaker. Born on October 31, 1887, in Marseille, France, he passed away on April 10, 1969, in the 8th arrondissement of Paris. Varna was a multifaceted artist who used various pseudonyms, including Henry d'Arvan and Varnel.

Raised in the Panier district of Marseille, Varna was educated by Jesuits at Saint-Ignace, where he discovered his passion for theater. Initially working in commerce with his father, he soon joined the 141st Infantry Regiment in 1906. By 1908, he was invited to Paris by Eugène Silvain of the Comédie-Française, marking the beginning of his artistic career.

Varna studied dramatic arts and performed at the Théâtre de l'Atelier and the Célestins in Lyon. He also sang at the Bataclan under the pseudonym Varnel and acted at the Casino de Cayeux-sur-Mer. His film debut came in 1910 under director Louis Feuillade.

In collaboration with Oscar Dufrenne, Varna managed several Parisian theaters, including the Concert Mayol and the Moncey Music-Hall. They also directed venues like the Bouffes du Nord, the Ambassadeurs, the Casino de Paris, and the Palace. After Dufrenne's death in 1933, Varna focused on operettas at the Théâtre Mogador, which he managed from 1940 until his death in 1969.

Varna is notably remembered for co-authoring the lyrics to Joséphine Baker's iconic song "J'ai deux amours" in 1930, alongside Géo Koger and composer Vincent Scotto. He produced numerous revues at the Casino de Paris, including "Paris-Miss" with Mistinguett and "Parade de France" featuring Tino Rossi.

Henri Varna died of a heart attack at the age of 81 and was buried in the Cimetière des Champeaux in Montmorency. His legacy continued with the Casino de Paris being taken over by Roland Petit and Zizi Jeanmaire.