Let's talk about a true Broadway legend, Chita Rivera, who recently turned 90! Her daughter, Lisa Mordente, threw her an unforgettable bash in Manhattan. Chita couldn’t help but be moved by the celebration. "When I saw that big '90' banner, I got goosebumps," she told AARP The Magazine in its April/May 2023 issue. This milestone birthday was a moment to reflect on a life filled with incredible achievements and unforgettable performances.
A Life Shaped by Dual Identities
Chita was born Dolores Conchita Figueroa del Rivero back in 1933. Her father was Puerto Rican, and her mother had Scottish-Irish roots. Growing up Catholic, Chita often joked about having two angels watching over her—Chita and Dolores. "Chita was the people pleaser, always trying to make everyone happy," she explained. "But Dolores? Oh, she was the one who told it like it was. No sugarcoating!" This duality shaped her career and life in fascinating ways.
A Banner Year—and a Banner Birthday
At her birthday celebration, Chita admitted that her "people-pleasing" side definitely made an appearance. "I let them keep the banner up," she laughed. "But honestly, I don’t want to leave this world. Sure, the body changes with time, but the heart stays the same. It’s constant." Her words were a powerful reminder of the timeless spirit that has kept her going for so long.
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A Journey to Stardom
Chita's journey to becoming a Broadway icon wasn’t overnight. It all started in her teenage years when she enrolled in the prestigious School of American Ballet. "Every step, every plié, led me closer to Broadway," she recalled. Her career took off from there, and she quickly became one of the most celebrated performers of her time. "I was lucky to land roles that were more than just jobs—they were life-changing experiences," she said.
Breaking Ground with 'West Side Story'
In 1957, Chita landed the role of Anita in West Side Story, a role that resonated deeply with audiences. "It wasn’t just a musical; it was ripped straight from the headlines," she explained. "There was a story about a tragedy at a nearby playground pinned to the theater entrance. That’s when I realized—this isn’t just entertainment. This is real life." Her performance as Anita left an indelible mark on Broadway history.
A Career Full of Highlights
Chita went on to star in countless iconic productions, including Bye Bye Birdie, Chicago, Bring Back Birdie, and Merlin. She finally won her first Tony Award in 1984 for her role in The Rink, alongside the legendary Liza Minnelli. Looking back, Chita feels incredibly grateful for the opportunities she’s had. "I’ve played some of the greatest roles—Anita, Velma in Chicago, the title role in Kiss of the Spider Woman," she said with a smile. "I’m pretty satisfied, but hey, there are still a few Tonys out there that should’ve been mine!"
