Chita Rivera, Broadway Star of West Side Story and Chicago, Passes Away at Age 91
A Multi-Talented Broadway Legend
Chita Rivera, one of Broadway’s most illustrious stars, has died at the age of 91. Known for her extraordinary singing, acting, and dancing abilities, she mesmerized audiences in timeless musicals such as West Side Story and Chicago. Rivera’s talent earned her several Tony Awards, including Best Actress in a musical for Kiss of the Spider Woman and The Rink. In 2018, she was honored with a Lifetime Tony Award.
A Tribute from a Dear Friend
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Chita Rivera, beloved mother of Lisa Mordente. Lisa’s dear friend and publicist, Merle Frimark, released a statement confirming the Broadway icon’s peaceful passing in New York after a brief illness.
A Life in the Spotlight
Rivera burst onto the New York theatre scene in the 1950s and remained a center-stage presence for six decades. In 2015, she reunited with composer John Kander and lyricist Fred Ebb for the Broadway production of The Visit. Rivera’s performances were not limited to musicals; she also dazzled audiences with her exquisite cabaret revues.
A Journey Rooted in Heritage
Chita Rivera’s father hailed from Puerto Rico, while her mother had Scottish and Irish origins. Raised in Washington DC, Rivera grew up alongside her four siblings, facing the loss of her father at a tender age of seven. In her youth, she briefly contemplated a life as a nun. However, a life in the theatre drew her in, sparking a lifelong passion for the stage.
An Iconic Broadway Career
After attending George Balanchine’s School of American Ballet, Rivera set her sights on musical theatre. It was during this time that she changed her name from Conchita del Rivero to Chita Rivera, making her stage name more billboard-friendly. Her breakthrough role came in 1956, starring alongside Sammy Davis Jr. in Mr Wonderful.
Notably, in 1957, Rivera took on the role of Anita, captivating audiences with her performance in West Side Story. Her distinctive portrayal of the character, along with her role as Velma Kelly in Kander and Ebb’s Chicago, showcased her tremendous range and passion as an artist.
Reflecting on an Illustrious Career
In 2005, Rivera celebrated her career with a revue titled Chita Rivera: The Dancer’s Life. Additionally, in 2023, she co-authored the book Chita: A Memoir with Patrick Pacheco. As a celebrated artist, Rivera continued to thrill audiences with intimate shows, sometimes alongside her daughter and a trio of talented musicians.
A Backstage Prayer
While reminiscing about her time on Broadway in 2023, Rivera disclosed her backstage ritual. She shared, “The only time my door would close would be just before I went on, and I said my prayers. I would say the Our Father, the Hail Mary, and the Act of Contrition. Then I’d go off to be crazy! … My prayer was always, ‘Let me say the right words, let me please the audience, let me do a good show.'”
A Cherished Legacy Lives On
Rivera is survived by her loving daughter, Lisa, and her siblings Julio, Armando, and Lola del Rivero. Her older sister, Carmen, preceded her in death.
