Chita Rivera death
Tony-winning dancer and singer dies at 91.
Chita Rivera, Broadway Icon and Trailblazer, Passes Away at 91
New York City, NY – Chita Rivera, the legendary dancer, singer, and actress known for her dynamic performances on Broadway, has passed away at the age of 91. Her daughter, Lisa Mordente, announced her death, revealing that Rivera passed away in New York after a brief illness.
A Pioneering Career That Shaped Broadway
Chita Rivera first rose to prominence in 1957 when she portrayed Anita in the original production of “West Side Story.” Her extraordinary talent and boundless energy allowed her to continue performing on Broadway for over half a century, with her final appearance in “The Visit” in 2015.
Throughout her illustrious career, Rivera collaborated with some of Broadway’s greatest talents, including Jerome Robbins, Leonard Bernstein, Bob Fosse, and Gower Champion. Her performances were always captivating, and audiences adored her. As playwright Paul Rudnick aptly put it, “The moment she stepped onstage, the world became more exciting and glorious.”
Recognition and Honors
In recognition of her immense contributions to the world of theater, Chita Rivera was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States. She was also chosen as the marshal for the Puerto Rican Day Parade in New York City in 2013.
A Resilient Spirit
Chita Rivera’s resilience was evident throughout her career. In 1988, she was involved in a near-fatal car accident that crushed her right leg. However, she refused to let this setback stop her from pursuing her passion. Rivera became an indefatigable star on the road and continued to grace Broadway stages with her incomparable talent.
She received two Tony Awards for her performances in “The Rink” in 1984 and “Kiss of the Spider Woman” in 1993. Her remarkable talent earned her seven additional Tony nominations throughout her career.
A Love for Original Musicals
Chita Rivera was a staunch advocate for original musicals, believing that the theater should be a place where music, lyrics, words, scenery, and stories come together to create something daring and transformative. She once expressed her desire for more original musicals, stating, “They take you places, and they’re daring. That’s what we need.”
A Legacy That Transcends the Stage
Chita Rivera’s impact extends beyond her performances on stage. Her albums, including her original cast recordings and solo works, have captivated audiences for decades. She was not only admired for her talent but also revered as a person. Fellow Broadway performer Kristin Chenoweth expressed her admiration, saying, “I looked up to you and always will admire you as a talent and mostly as a person! A kick butt woman you were. All the rest of us just wanna be you.”
A Life Filled with Passion and Determination
Born Dolores Conchita Figueroa del Rivero on January 23, 1933, in Washington, D.C., Chita Rivera discovered her love for dance at a young age. She honed her skills at the prestigious School of American Ballet in New York and began her theater career as a chorus girl in various productions.
Despite facing personal and professional challenges, Chita Rivera remained steadfast in her pursuit of her dreams. Her resilience and unwavering dedication to her craft allowed her to achieve remarkable success and become a true Broadway icon.
Farewell to a Broadway Legend
The world of theater mourns the loss of Chita Rivera, a trailblazer who shattered barriers and paved the way for Latina artists. Her extraordinary talent, passion, and indomitable spirit will continue to inspire generations of performers to come. As Chita Rivera once said, “Theater is life,” and her legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to witness her incredible performances.
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1. Chita Rivera revered and pioneering Tony-winning dancer and singer dies at 91
2. Chita Rivera dies at 91, a revered and pioneering Tony-winning dancer and singer.
