– Broadway legend Chita Rivera’s passing at 91
– Chita Rivera, renowned Broadway icon, dies at age 91.
Chita Rivera, Renowned Broadway Star, Dies at 91
Chita Rivera, a beloved singer, dancer, and actress who graced the Broadway stage for over six decades, passed away on Tuesday, January 30, according to her publicist. She was 91 years old.
Rivera, known for her iconic roles in musicals such as “West Side Story” and “Chicago,” died in New York after a brief illness, as confirmed by her daughter Lisa Mordente.
Born on January 23, 1933, in Washington, D.C., Rivera began her journey in the performing arts at a young age. She received training in voice, piano, and ballet, and by the time she was 20, she was already dancing on Broadway.
Throughout her career, Rivera received an impressive 10 Tony Award nominations, making her one of the most recognized actors in the history of the prestigious Broadway awards. In addition, she was honored with the Kennedy Center honors in 2002 and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Barack Obama in 2009.
Rivera had the privilege of working with legendary talents such as Leonard Bernstein, Bob Fosse, Stephen Sondheim, and Jerome Robbins. Her performances were known for their sensuality and captivating stage presence.
Together with fellow actress Rita Moreno, Rivera paved the way for other Puerto Rican stars, including Lin-Manuel Miranda, to conquer Broadway. Her breakout role came in 1957 when she portrayed Anita in the American adaptation of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” known as “West Side Story.” Although she did not reprise the role in the film version, her performance on stage earned her critical acclaim and her first Tony nomination.
Rivera’s career was marked by many memorable performances, including her portrayal of Velma Kelly in the hit musical “Chicago” in 1975. She later made a cameo appearance in the 2002 film adaptation of the musical.
Despite experiencing setbacks and disappointments in Hollywood, Rivera always returned to Broadway, taking on new and diverse roles. She appeared on popular television variety shows such as “The Ed Sullivan Show,” which gave her national recognition.
Beyond her professional achievements, Rivera had a personal life that included a marriage to fellow dancer Tony Mordente, whom she met during the production of “West Side Story.” They had a daughter named Lisa before divorcing in 1966. Rivera also had a notable affair with legendary performer Sammy Davis Jr. during her time in the musical “Mr. Wonderful.”
In 2018, Rivera received a Tony Award for lifetime achievement, cementing her status as a true Broadway legend.
The world of theater mourns the loss of Chita Rivera, a remarkable talent whose influence and talent will continue to inspire generations to come. Her contributions to the performing arts will never be forgotten.
[Image Source: AFP].
1. Broadway legend Chita Rivera dies at 91
2. Broadway icon Chita Rivera passes away at 91.
