The world of theater mourns the loss of a true legend as Chita Rivera, the iconic Broadway performer, passed away at the age of 91. Known for her extraordinary talent and electrifying stage presence, Rivera left an indelible mark on the world of musical theater.
Rivera's career spanned over six decades, during which she graced the stages of countless Broadway productions. She was celebrated for her powerful voice, impeccable dancing skills, and ability to captivate audiences with her magnetic performances. From her breakthrough role as Anita in "West Side Story" to her Tony Award-winning performances in "The Rink" and "Kiss of the Spider Woman," Rivera's contributions to musical theater were unparalleled.
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."
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.
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.
 Read more
CM Punk Out of WWE WrestleMania 40 After Injury Suffered at Royal Rumble Amelia Earhart's long-lost plane spotted in the Pacific by exploration team
 Sarah H
Also on site :