Broadway legend Chita Rivera dies aged 91
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In a heartbreaking announcement, Broadway legend Chita Rivera has passed away at the age of 91. Her friend and publicist Merle Frimark confirmed the news on January 30th, sharing that Rivera’s daughter, Lisa Mordente, made the announcement on behalf of her beloved mother.
Rivera was renowned for her remarkable talent as a “triple threat,” excelling in singing, dancing, and acting. She graced the stages of classic musicals such as West Side Story and Chicago, where she portrayed the iconic roles of Anita and Velma Kelly, respectively.
Recognizing her contributions to the theater world, Rivera was honored with the Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in Theatre in 2018. During her acceptance speech, she expressed her deep love for the theater, stating, “I wouldn’t trade my life in the theater for anything because theater is life.” Additionally, she won Tony Awards for Best Actress in a Musical for her performances in Kiss of the Spider Woman and The Rink.
Rivera’s illustrious career spanned over six decades, beginning in the 1950s and culminating in the 2015 Broadway production of The Visit. Her journey in musical theater commenced after attending George Balanchine’s School of American Ballet, where she honed her craft. In 1957, she landed the role of Anita in West Side Story, a musical adaptation of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. The production first graced Broadway stages before making its way to London’s West End via Manchester.
Reflecting on her experience, Rivera reminisced about the audition process for West Side Story and her love for playing the character of Anita. She described Anita as a maternal figure to Maria, fiercely protective yet saucy and passionate, deeply in love with Bernardo. The casting process involved multiple auditions, and Rivera vividly recalled the energy in the room as a group of young, enthusiastic dancers came together to bring the story to life.
Following the news of Rivera’s passing, fellow actors and artists paid tribute to the Broadway legend. Grey’s Anatomy executive producer Debbie Allen, who considered Rivera her mentor and friend, took to Instagram to express her gratitude. She wrote, “CHITA RIVERA. My Mentor, My Friend, Our Goddess of Inspiration and Joy – Thank You. Every moment of your life has been a treasure of what is possible. I will miss touching you, but I will forever hear your laughter and hold that baton of power you tossed my way.”
Chita Rivera’s impact on the theater community and her audience cannot be overstated. Her extraordinary talent and unwavering dedication to her craft have left an indelible mark on Broadway history. As fans and fellow performers mourn her loss, her legacy will continue to inspire generations of artists to come.
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