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Chita Rivera

Also Credited As: Conchita Del Rivero

Birth Place: Washington, DC, USA

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BIO

Chita Rivera is one of the most nominated performers in Tony Award history having earned 10 nominations, won twice and received the 2018 Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre.


Her most recent starring roles included The Visit, the final John Kander/Fred Ebb/Terrence McNally musical directed by John Doyle and choreographed by Graciela Daniele on Broadway; the Broadway revival of The Mystery of Edwin Drood; the Broadway and touring productions of The Dancer's Life, a dazzling musical celebrating her spectacular career, written by Terrence McNally and directed by Graciela Daniele and the revival of the Broadway musical Nine with Antonio Banderas.
Dolores Conchita Figueroa del Rivero Anderson was born on January 23, 1933 in Washington, D.C., the daughter of Katherine (Anderson) and Pedro Julio Figueroa del Rivero.
She trained as a ballerina (from age nine) before receiving a scholarship to the School of American Ballet from the legendary choreographer George Balanchine. Chita's first appearance (age 19) was as a principal dancer in Call Me Madam.
Chita burst onto the Broadway scene in 1957 with her electric performance as Anita in the original Broadway premiere of West Side Story, which she repeated in London in 1958.
Her career was highlighted by starring roles in Bye Bye Birdie, The Rink (Tony Award), Chicago, Jerry's Girls, Kiss of the Spider Woman (Tony Award), and the original Broadway casts of Guys and Dolls, Can-Can, Seventh Heaven and Mr. Wonderful. On tour: Born Yesterday, The Rose Tattoo, Call Me Madam, Threepenny Opera, Sweet Charity, Kiss Me Kate, Zorba, Can-Can with The Rockettes.
Chita was awarded The Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama in 2009 and received the coveted Kennedy Center Honor in 2002. In 2019, Chita performed her solo concert at London's Cadogan Hall; in 2018 she was honored as a Living Landmark by the New York Landmarks Conservancy; in 2016 she headlined at Carnegie Hall and in 2015, Great Performances aired their special Chita Rivera: A Lot of Livin' To Do, a retrospective of her extraordinary life and career nationally on PBS.
Her solo CD is entitled And Now I Swing. Her book CHITA: A MEMOIR was published by HarperOne in April 25, 2023.
In 2017 it was announced that the Astaire Awards, which promote and recognize dance and choreographic excellence on Broadway, Off-Broadway and in film, would be renamed the Chita Rivera Awards.
Chita was a dear friend of BroadwayWorld, having co-hosted our 20th anniversary concert event alongside Richard Ridge. She died on January 30, 2024 in New York after a brief illness at age 91.

Photos

STAGE CREDITS

[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 2015
Claire Zachanassian


[Williamstown, MA (Regional)]
Williamstown Theatre Festival Production, 2014
Claire


[Broadway]
Roundabout Theatre Company Production, 2012
Princess Puffer


[Arlington, VA (Regional)]
Kander & Ebb Celebration Production, 2008
Claire Zachanassian


[Arlington, VA (Regional)]
Signature Theatre Production, 2007


[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 2005
Chita Rivera


[Off-Broadway]
Original Off-Broadway Production [Cancelled], 2004
Claire Zachanassian


[Broadway]
Roundabout Revival, 2003
Liliane La Fleur


[Chicago (Regional)]
World Premiere, 2001
Claire Zachanassian


[Milburn, NJ (Regional)]
Paper Mill Production, 2000
Reno Sweeney




[New York]
Workshop, 1998
Countess Aurelia


[US Tour]
2nd National Tour, 1997
Roxie Hart [Replacement]

[Replacement]

[West End]
London Revival, 1997
[Replacement]

[Replacement]

[Broadway]
Angela Lansbury Tribute Benefit, 1996
Performer


[Broadway]
Broadway Production, 1993
Spider Woman / Aurora

Spider Woman/Aurora

Spider Woman / Aurora

Spider Woman/Aurora

[West End]
London Production, 1992


[Toronto]
Toronto Production, 1992
Performer


[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 1985


[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 1984
Anna


[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 1983
The Queen


[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 1981
Rose


[Broadway]
1979
Performer


[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 1975
Velma Kelly


[Broadway]
Concert [Broadway], 1973
Performer


[Broadway]
Closed on the road, 1969


[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 1964
Anyanka


[Broadway]
Closed on the road, 1963
Athena Constantine


[West End]
London Production, 1961
Rose Grant


[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 1960

Rose Alvarez

Rose Grant

Rose Alvarez

[West End]
London Production, 1958
Anita


[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 1957


[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 1957
mehitabel (Saint Tome (Sao Tome) and Principe)

(St. Louis, MO (Regional))

(Standby)

[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 1956
Rita Romano




[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 1955
Fifi




[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 1953
Dancer [Replacement]

[Replacement]

Awards and Nominations

Tony Awards - 2018 - Lifetime Achievement Award

Chita Rivera

Drama Desk Awards - 2015 - Outstanding Actress in a Musical

Chita Rivera, The Visit


winner
Drama League Awards - 2015 - Distinguished Performance Award

Chita Rivera, The Visit

Outer Critics Circle Awards - 2015 - Outstanding Actress in a Musical

Chita Rivera, The Visit


winner
Theatre World Awards - 2015 - John Willis Award for Lifetime Achievement

Chita Rivera

Tony Awards - 2015 - Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical

Chita Rivera, The Visit

Drama League Awards - 2013 - Distinguished Performance Award

Chita Rivera, The Mystery of Edwin Drood


winner
Helen Hayes Awards - 2009 - Outstanding Lead Actress, Resident Musical

Chita RiveraThe Visit

Tony Awards - 2006 - Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical

Chita Rivera, Chita Rivera: The Dancer's Life


winner
Drama Desk Awards - 2003 - Outstanding Featured Actress - Musical

Chita Rivera, Nine

Outer Critics Circle Awards - 2003 - Outstanding Actress in a Musical

Chita Rivera , Nine

Tony Awards - 2003 - Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical

Chita Rivera, Nine

Helen Hayes Awards - 1996 - Outstanding Lead Actress, Non-Resident Production

Chita RiveraKiss of the Spider Woman, The Musical


winner
Helen Hayes Awards - 1996 - The American Express Tribute

Chita Rivera


winner
Outer Critics Circle Awards - 1994 - Best Actress - Musical

Chita Rivera, Kiss of the Spider Woman


winner
Drama Desk Awards - 1993 - Outstanding Actress - Musical

Chita Rivera, Kiss of the Spider Woman


winner
Drama League Awards - 1993 - Distinguished Achievement in Musical Theatre

Chita Rivera


winner
Tony Awards - 1993 - Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical

Chita Rivera, Kiss of the Spider Woman

Tony Awards - 1986 - Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical

Chita Rivera, Jerry's Girls


winner
Drama Desk Awards - 1984 - Outstanding Actress in a Musical

Chita Rivera, The Rink


winner
Tony Awards - 1984 - Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical

Chita Rivera, The Rink

Tony Awards - 1983 - Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical

Chita Rivera, Merlin

Drama Desk Awards - 1981 - Outstanding Actress in a Musical

Chita Rivera, Bring Back Birdie

Tony Awards - 1981 - Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical

Chita Rivera, Bring Back Birdie

Tony Awards - 1976 - Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical

Chita Rivera, Chicago

Tony Awards - 1961 - Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical

Chita Rivera , Bye Bye Birdie

Videos

News


Al Hirschfeld Foundation to Release HIRSCHFELD'S ICONS Poster Book in April 2026
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Feb 19, 2026

The Al Hirschfeld Foundation will present a new collection titled Hirschfeld's Icons: A Poster Book featuring iconic figures like Elvis and Madonna. Set for release in April 2026, the book celebrates the artistry of Al Hirschfeld through captivating posters.
Corbin Bleu and John Behlmann Will Join THE GREAT GATSBY on Broadway
by Stephi Wild - Feb 18, 2026

Film, television, and stage star Corbin Bleu will join the Broadway company as Nick Carraway after playing the role in the West End production last year. Bleu joins the company with Broadway favorite John Behlmann
Andrew Lloyd Webber to be Honored at Goodspeed's 2026 Gala
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Feb 17, 2026

Andrew Lloyd Webber, one of the most influential figures in musical theatre, will be honored by Goodspeed Musicals at their 2026 Gala & Auction. He will be honored with the Goodspeed Musicals Award for Outstanding Contribution to Musical Theatre.
Ronald Rand to Star in LET IT BE ART! South Carolina Premiere at Bluebird Theatre
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Feb 16, 2026

U.S. Cultural Ambassador Ronald Rand will be bringing Harold Clurman, the 'Elder Statesman of the American Theatre' alive in the South Caroilna premiere of his solo play, Let It Be Art! at the Bluebird Theatre in Orangeburg.
Video: Marc Kudisch Sings 'Just in Time' & 'I Met A Girl' from BELLS ARE RINGING at 54 Below
by Michael Major - Feb 13, 2026

Charles Kirsch, the 18-year-old host of the theater podcast Backstage Babble, has been conducting in-depth interviews with some of Broadway’s best. Watch a video of Marc Kudisch singing at his 54 Below show!
Leslie Rodriguez Kritzer Joins March Event at Hermitage Artist Retreat
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Feb 12, 2026

The Hermitage Artist Retreat revealed a change to the program on the Hermitage Beach. Tony Award nominee Leslie Rodriguez Kritzer will step into the lineup!
Complete Guide to the 2026 Broadway Awards Season
by Sidney Paterra - Feb 7, 2026

The 2026 theatre awards season is here and keeping track of all of the important dates for the many ceremonies and their corresponding nomination announcements is no easy feat. Stay up to date on all the need-to-know facts with BroadwayWorld's full Awards Season Calendar below!
Vanessa Williams, Tony Danza and More to Perform at 54 Below in February
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jan 30, 2026

Next month, 54 Below, Broadway’s Supper Club & Private Event Destination, will present some of the brightest stars from Broadway, cabaret, jazz, and beyond, including Vanessa Williams, Tony Danza and more. 
John Tartaglia, Karla Puno Garcia and More Set for The Muny Season 108 Productions
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jan 30, 2026

The Muny has selected the seven teams of directors, choreographers, music directors and lead designers whose creative visions will shape the Tony Award-winning theatre’s 2026 season in Forest Park.
Rachel Dratch, Stephanie Hsu, Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, Juliette Lewis & More Join THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW- Full Cast Announced
by Nicole Rosky - Jan 29, 2026

It's time to meet Broadway's new creatures of the night! Roundabout Theatre Company has announced the complete cast for Richard O’Brien’s The Rocky Horror Show, with direction by Tony Award winner Sam Pinkleton.
KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN to Make Hulu Streaming Debut in February
by Josh Sharpe - Jan 26, 2026

Kiss of the Spider Woman, the 2025 adaptation of the Broadway musical, will be available to stream on Hulu beginning February 27, 2026, in the United States.
Full Cast Set For Broadway Transfer of CATS: THE JELLICLE BALL
by Stephi Wild - Jan 26, 2026

Complete casting has been announced for CATS: The Jellicle Ball at the Broadhurst Theatre (235 West 44th Street) coming to Broadway this Spring. Learn more about the full cast here!
Will Kelley Set to Debut at 54 Below with 'FOR THE RECORD' on February 5
by A.A. Cristi - Jan 23, 2026

Will Kelley will make his debut at 54 Below with his solo show 'FOR THE RECORD' on February 5, 2026. Directed by Faith Prince and Michael Kirk Lane, with musical direction by John Bronston, the show promises an evening rich with Broadway and cabaret influences.
Chita Rivera Awards and NYCDA Foundation Launch Talent Search for Chita Rivera Training Grant
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jan 23, 2026

The Chita Rivera Awards and The NYC Dance Alliance Foundation are unveiling a national talent search to award a Chita Rivera Training Grant to an emerging triple threat, age 18-25. 
Wake Up With BroadwayWorld January 23, 2026- Jeremy Jordan Joins JUST IN TIME and More
by - Jan 23, 2026

Rise and shine, BroadwayWorld! It is January 23, 2026 and it's time to catch up on all of the theatrical happenings you may have missed in the last 24 hours.
Up on the Marquee: CATS: THE JELLICLE BALL Pounces to Broadway
by Jennifer Broski - Jan 22, 2026

The jellicles are coming! CATS: The Jellicle Ball will begin Broadway previews at the Broadhurst Theatre on Wednesday, March 18 ahead of a Tuesday, April 7 opening night. The theatre was most recently home to Rob Lake Magic with Special Guests The Muppets, which closed on November 16, 2025. Check out photos of the new marquee here!
Hot Tickets of the Week: CHICAGO, HELL'S KITCHEN & More
by Team BWW - Jan 21, 2026

Ready to see your next Broadway show? Of course you are! Let BroadwayWorld and Ticketmaster be your guide to which plays and musicals are the most buzz-worthy this week. Check out the shows we recommend that you should snag tickets (and a great deal!) to right now.
54 Below to Celebrate Black History Month With Latrice Royale, Vanessa Williams and More
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jan 20, 2026

54 Below will honor the Black performers, producers, and artists who are vital members of our artistic community this Black History Month, featuring performances by Vanessa Williams and more.
CATS: THE JELLICLE BALL Releases 'Runway Seating'
by Stephi Wild - Jan 20, 2026

Exclusive “Runway Seating” at the Broadhurst Theatre are on sale now for the new Broadway production of CATS: The Jellicle Ball. Learn more about the runway seats here.
WATER FOR ELEPHANTS National Tour Comes To Zions Bank Broadway At The Eccles
by A.A. Cristi - Jan 17, 2026

The highly anticipated musical adaptation of WATER FOR ELEPHANTS is set to captivate audiences at the Eccles Theater in Salt Lake City. This new production brings the beloved novel to life with stunning performances and breathtaking stagecraft. Tickets for the show, which promises to be a major theatrical event, are now on sale.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How many Broadway shows has Chita Rivera been in?

Chita Rivera has appeared on Broadway in 22 shows.

How many West End shows has Chita Rivera been in?

Chita Rivera has appeared on London's West End in 4 shows.

What was Chita Rivera's first West End show?

Chita Rivera's first West End show was West Side Story which opened in 1958

What awards has Chita Rivera been nominated for?

Lifetime Achievement Award (Tony Awards), Outstanding Actress in a Musical (Drama Desk Awards) for The Visit, Distinguished Performance Award (Drama League Awards) for The Visit, Outstanding Actress in a Musical (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for The Visit, John Willis Award for Lifetime Achievement (Theatre World Awards), Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical (Tony Awards) for The Visit, Distinguished Performance Award (Drama League Awards) for The Mystery of Edwin Drood, Outstanding Lead Actress, Resident Musical (Helen Hayes Awards) for The Visit , Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical (Tony Awards) for Chita Rivera: The Dancer's Life, Outstanding Featured Actress - Musical (Drama Desk Awards) for Nine, Outstanding Actress in a Musical (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for Nine , Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical (Tony Awards) for Nine, Outstanding Lead Actress, Non-Resident Production (Helen Hayes Awards) for Kiss of the Spider Woman, The Musical , The American Express Tribute (Helen Hayes Awards) for , Best Actress - Musical (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for Kiss of the Spider Woman, Outstanding Actress - Musical (Drama Desk Awards) for Kiss of the Spider Woman, Distinguished Achievement in Musical Theatre (Drama League Awards), Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical (Tony Awards) for Kiss of the Spider Woman, Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical (Tony Awards) for Jerry's Girls, Outstanding Actress in a Musical (Drama Desk Awards) for The Rink, Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical (Tony Awards) for The Rink, Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical (Tony Awards) for Merlin, Outstanding Actress in a Musical (Drama Desk Awards) for Bring Back Birdie, Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical (Tony Awards) for Bring Back Birdie, Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical (Tony Awards) for Chicago and Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical (Tony Awards) for Bye Bye Birdie.

What awards has Chita Rivera won?

Chita Rivera has received numerous awards throughout her career, including the Distinguished Performance Award from the Drama League Awards for The Visit, and the John Willis Award for Lifetime Achievement from the Theatre World Awards. She won Outstanding Lead Actress in a Resident Musical at the Helen Hayes Awards for The Visit. Additionally, she earned Outstanding Featured Actress in a Musical at the Drama Desk Awards for Nine. Chita Rivera was honored with The American Express Tribute at the Helen Hayes Awards. She won Best Actress in a Musical at the Outer Critics Circle Awards for Kiss of the Spider Woman, and Outstanding Actress in a Musical at the Drama Desk Awards for the same show. She also received Distinguished Achievement in Musical Theatre from the Drama League Awards. For Kiss of the Spider Woman, she won Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical at the Tony Awards. Chita Rivera earned Outstanding Actress in a Musical at the Drama Desk Awards for The Rink and won Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical at the Tony Awards for The Rink as well.

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