"West Side Story" star Chita Rivera dies at 91

The world of theater mourns the loss of a true legend as Broadway star Chita Rivera passes away at the age of 91. Known for her mesmerizing performances and unparalleled talent, Rivera's contributions to the stage will forever be remembered.

Rivera's career spanned over six decades, during which she graced countless stages with her powerful voice, graceful dance moves, and magnetic presence. From her breakout role as Anita in "West Side Story" to her iconic portrayal of Velma Kelly in "Chicago," Rivera captivated audiences with her unmatched charisma and versatility.

Beyond her undeniable talent, Rivera was also a trailblazer for Latinx performers in the industry. She shattered barriers and defied stereotypes, paving the way for future generations of artists. Her success served as an inspiration to aspiring actors who saw themselves represented on stage through her performances.

Rivera "was everything Broadway was meant to be," says Laurence Maslon, co-producer of the 2004 PBS series Broadway: The American Musical. "She was spontaneous and compelling and talented as hell for decades and decades on Broadway. Once you saw her, you never forgot her."

In her 2023 book, "Chita: A Memoir," Rivera described herself as two people: Chita and Dolores. She said Dolores has a darker side, but "I believe that Dolores is responsible for me having a career. She's the guts. She's the courage."

Rivera harnessed that drive to catapult herself onto the Broadway stage at her time when few Latinas won roles, rising to stardom with her performance in "West Side Story" and going on to star in other hit shows including "Bye Bye Birdie," "Guys and Dolls," "Chicago" and "Kiss of the Spider Woman." 

In her 2023 book, "Chita: A Memoir," Rivera described herself as two people: Chita and Dolores. She said Dolores has a darker side, but "I believe that Dolores is responsible for me having a career. She's the guts. She's the courage."

Rivera harnessed that drive to catapult herself onto the Broadway stage at her time when few Latinas won roles, rising to stardom with her performance in "West Side Story" and going on to star in other hit shows including "Bye Bye Birdie," "Guys and Dolls," "Chicago" and "Kiss of the Spider Woman." 

The Tony Awards called her a "Broadway legend ... whose grace, talent and passion left an unforgettable mark on the world of theatre".

Rivera's work earned her two Tony Awards for best actress in a musical for The Rink and Kiss of the Spider Woman. She was nominated for eight others.

In 2002, Rivera was the first Latina to be awarded Kennedy Center Honors, which is given to artists for lifetime achievements in performing arts.

She is also a recipient of a Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the US, given to her by former President Barack Obama in 2009 for her work as an "agent of change".

In 2018, Rivera was given a lifetime Tony award. Last year she published her autobiography, Chita: A Memoir, which became a New York Times best seller.

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 Sarah H

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