Chita Rivera Awards to Include Performances by THE PROM, AIN'T TOO PROUD, and More

The Chita Rivera Awards, taking place at The NYU Skirball Center for the Performing Arts this Sunday, May 19, announces presenters for the evening. Presenters include Chita Rivera, Andy Blankenbuehler, Camille A. Brown, Ariana DeBose, LuAnn de Lesseps, Micaela Diamond, Damon J. Gillespie, Savion Glover, Marilu Henner, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Tiler Peck, Lee Roy Reams, Michael Riedel, Ethan Slater, Mary Testa and Richard Thomas.

Performances for the evening has also been announced: The Radio City Rockettes,Ain't Too Proud..., Kiss Me Kate, The Prom, Smokey Joe's Café and a few surprises!

The mission of the Chita Rivera Awards is to celebrate dance and choreographic excellence, preserve notable dance history, recognize past, present and future talents, while promoting high standards in dance education and investing in the next generation.

At the evening's ceremony, dancer, choreographer and theater director Graciela Danielereceived the third annual Lifetime Achievement Award, and Flody Suarez, Jeffrey Seller, and Cher (producers of The Cher Show on Broadway) were honored with the Ambassador for the Arts Award honoring their contribution to the convergence of theater, film, and television. George C. Wolfe was presented with the SDC Director Award for exemplary collaboration with choreographers on Broadway and Carol Paumgartenreceived the Vanguard Award for her outstanding contribution to the international dance community, having founded Steps on Broadway Dance Studio 40 years ago. The evening was hosted by Ann Reinking and Ben Vereen.

Nominators considered outstanding choreography, featured dancers and ensembles in Broadway and off-Broadway shows, as well as outstanding choreography in film during the theatrical season. The off-Broadway and Film committees made nominations and name winners in those categories. Broadway nominees were designated by the Broadway nominating committee and winners were selected by the Broadway awarding committee.

Photo Credit: Deen Van Meer