Chita Rivera
Also Credited As: Conchita Del Rivero
Birth Place: Washington, DC, USA
Latest News on Chita Rivera:
George Dvorsky Brings Solo Show SOMETHING WONDERFUL To Good Theater (Jan 6, 2026)
Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp, Matthew Morrison and More to Perform at 54 Below in January (Dec 29, 2025)
Cabaret Roundup: December 29-January 4- Sandra Bernhardt, Charles Busch & More (Dec 29, 2025)
George Dvorsky Brings Solo Show SOMETHING WONDERFUL To Good Theater (Jan 6, 2026)
Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp, Matthew Morrison and More to Perform at 54 Below in January (Dec 29, 2025)
Cabaret Roundup: December 29-January 4- Sandra Bernhardt, Charles Busch & More (Dec 29, 2025)
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 last May alongside Richard Ridge. She died on January 30, 2024 in New York after a brief illness at age 91.
Photos
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Host Chita Rivera, Host Richard Ridge, BroadwayWorld's Founder and CEO Robert Diamond and Theatre Director of Strategic Partnerships Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment Office of Film, Theatre and Broadcasting Carla Hoke-Miller
Date:
05/22/2023
From: Photos: Go Inside BroadwayWorld's Star-Studded 20th Anniversary Celebration
STAGE CREDITS
[Broadway]
Broadway Production, 1993
Spider Woman / Aurora
Spider Woman/Aurora
Spider Woman / Aurora
Spider Woman/Aurora
[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 1957
mehitabel (Saint Tome (Sao Tome) and Principe)
(St. Louis, MO (Regional))
(Standby)
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
Video: Michael Crawford Talks Being Honored By the Kennedy Center
by A.A. Cristi - 2025-12-23 19:53:21
Video: DICK VAN DYKE: 100TH CELEBRATION Documentary Debuts Trailer
by Josh Sharpe - 2025-11-03 11:53:18
Video: Jennifer Lopez New Musical Clip from KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN on THE TONIGHT SHOW
by Josh Sharpe - 2025-10-08 11:12:13
Video: Jennifer Lopez Opens Up About Seeing Her First Broadway Show
by Josh Sharpe - 2025-10-06 13:44:57
Video: Jennifer Lopez Talks Lifelong Love of Musicals on CBS SUNDAY MORNING, Previews KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN
by Josh Sharpe - 2025-09-29 11:43:08
Listen: Tonatiuh Sings 'She's a Woman' From KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN
by Josh Sharpe - 2025-09-26 11:49:34
Video: Jennifer Lopez, Tonatiuh, & More on Bringing KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN to Life
by Josh Sharpe - 2025-09-22 15:43:17
Video: Watch CABARET AT THE KIT KAT CLUB Take Its Final Bow on Broadway
by Michael Major - 2025-09-22 09:48:28
Video: Billy Porter on the Difference Between His Directing and Performance Styles: 'I'm About Love'
by Josh Sharpe - 2025-07-25 10:25:23
Video: Billy Porter Says He is Returning to a 'Better' Broadway in CABARET
by Josh Sharpe - 2025-07-23 10:20:16
Video: Billy Porter Talks Fulfilling Dream Role as Emcee in Broadway’s CABARET
by Josh Sharpe - 2025-07-21 12:00:41
Video: Look Back on Chita Rivera Singing 'Buenos Aires' From EVITA in Throwback Performance
by Michael Major - 2025-07-07 15:11:33
Video: Watch an Early Test For BOOP!'s Color-Changing Act Two Opening
by Michael Major - 2025-07-03 10:49:52
Video: Watch Marisha Wallace Sing 'Maybe This Time' From CABARET
by Michael Major - 2025-06-23 16:59:39
Video: Jennifer Simard and Christopher Sieber Talk Viral DEATH BECOMES HER Line
by Josh Sharpe - 2025-06-03 10:21:06
Video: Megan Hilty & Jennifer Simard Sing 'The Confrontation' at MISCAST
by Michael Major - 2025-05-30 11:14:52
Video: Michelle Williams Recalls Meeting Michelle Williams: 'It Was Such a Tender Moment'
by Josh Sharpe - 2025-05-27 14:03:42
Video: Jennifer Simard and Michelle Williams Reflect on DEATH BECOMES HER Success on CBS MORNINGS
by Josh Sharpe - 2025-05-22 11:15:51
News
George Dvorsky Brings Solo Show SOMETHING WONDERFUL To Good Theater
by Stephi Wild - Jan 6, 2026
Good Theater will present the Maine premiere of Something Wonderful, an acclaimed solo show by Broadway veteran George Dvorsky, January 15 through February 1. Leanr more here!
by Stephi Wild - Jan 6, 2026
Good Theater will present the Maine premiere of Something Wonderful, an acclaimed solo show by Broadway veteran George Dvorsky, January 15 through February 1. Leanr more here!
Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp, Matthew Morrison and More to Perform at 54 Below in January
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Dec 29, 2025
In January of 2026, 54 Below will present some of the brightest stars from Broadway, cabaret, jazz, and beyond, including Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp, Matthew Morrison and many more.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Dec 29, 2025
In January of 2026, 54 Below will present some of the brightest stars from Broadway, cabaret, jazz, and beyond, including Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp, Matthew Morrison and many more.
Cabaret Roundup: December 29-January 4- Sandra Bernhardt, Charles Busch & More
by Rebecca Kaplan - Dec 29, 2025
Here are a few top picks to consider this week including New Years Eve celebrations, Glee's Matthew Morrison in a new solo show, a celebration of golden age Broadway, and more.
by Rebecca Kaplan - Dec 29, 2025
Here are a few top picks to consider this week including New Years Eve celebrations, Glee's Matthew Morrison in a new solo show, a celebration of golden age Broadway, and more.
Video: Watch Highlights From the 2025 Kennedy Center Honors
by Josh Sharpe - Dec 22, 2025
New sneak peeks have been released from the 2025 Kennedy Center Honors ceremony, featuring Michael Crawford, Kelsey Grammer, Carrie Manolakos, and more. Check out a preview of the ceremony here.
by Josh Sharpe - Dec 22, 2025
New sneak peeks have been released from the 2025 Kennedy Center Honors ceremony, featuring Michael Crawford, Kelsey Grammer, Carrie Manolakos, and more. Check out a preview of the ceremony here.
Review: CHICAGO at Casino De Paris
by Patrick Honoré - Dec 16, 2025
The Paris revival remains polished and efficient, but once again raises a familiar question: has Chicago become more concert than theatre?
by Patrick Honoré - Dec 16, 2025
The Paris revival remains polished and efficient, but once again raises a familiar question: has Chicago become more concert than theatre?
Broadway Icon Bernadette Peters Comes To NJPAC In May 2026
by A.A. Cristi - Dec 1, 2025
New Jersey Performing Arts Center will present an evening with three-time award-winning actress, singer, and Broadway icon Bernadette Peters. The performance will take place on Sunday, May 31, at 7:00 p.m..
by A.A. Cristi - Dec 1, 2025
New Jersey Performing Arts Center will present an evening with three-time award-winning actress, singer, and Broadway icon Bernadette Peters. The performance will take place on Sunday, May 31, at 7:00 p.m..
Ryan Graham Hinds to Make UK Debut In LANDING IN LONDON At The Crazy Coqs
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Nov 25, 2025
Canadian theatre and cabaret star Ryan Graham Hinds is landing at The Crazy Coqs for a fabulous UK debut! Ryan shares what prompted a move to a new country and a new life in London.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Nov 25, 2025
Canadian theatre and cabaret star Ryan Graham Hinds is landing at The Crazy Coqs for a fabulous UK debut! Ryan shares what prompted a move to a new country and a new life in London.
Review: The Special Chemistry of Broadway at The Dutch Treat Club
by Stephen Sorokoff - Nov 19, 2025
Andrew Gerle, Joseph Zelnick and Kirsti Carnahan were the special treat for the Dutch Treat Club's lunch/learn/entertain afternoon on November 18. See photos from the event centered around the PERIODIC TABLE OF BROADWAY MUSICALS.
by Stephen Sorokoff - Nov 19, 2025
Andrew Gerle, Joseph Zelnick and Kirsti Carnahan were the special treat for the Dutch Treat Club's lunch/learn/entertain afternoon on November 18. See photos from the event centered around the PERIODIC TABLE OF BROADWAY MUSICALS.
WATER FOR ELEPHANTS National Tour To Play The Bushnell In June 2026
by A.A. Cristi - Nov 18, 2025
The North American tour of WATER FOR ELEPHANTS will play The Bushnell in Hartford from June 2–7, 2026. The production, based on Sara Gruen’s bestselling novel, features a book by Rick Elice and music and lyrics by PigPen Theatre Co.
by A.A. Cristi - Nov 18, 2025
The North American tour of WATER FOR ELEPHANTS will play The Bushnell in Hartford from June 2–7, 2026. The production, based on Sara Gruen’s bestselling novel, features a book by Rick Elice and music and lyrics by PigPen Theatre Co.
WATER FOR ELEPHANTS Comes To Columbus June, 2026
by A.A. Cristi - Nov 10, 2025
The North American tour of the critically acclaimed bestselling novel WATER FOR ELEPHANTS, hailed as a Critic's Pick by The New York Times, is coming to the Ohio Theatre June 9-14, 2025.
by A.A. Cristi - Nov 10, 2025
The North American tour of the critically acclaimed bestselling novel WATER FOR ELEPHANTS, hailed as a Critic's Pick by The New York Times, is coming to the Ohio Theatre June 9-14, 2025.
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. She won the Distinguished Performance Award from the Drama League Awards for The Visit, as well as the John Willis Award for Lifetime Achievement from the Theatre World Awards. She earned the Outstanding Lead Actress, Resident Musical award at the Helen Hayes Awards for The Visit. For her role in Nine, she received the Outstanding Featured Actress - Musical award from the Drama Desk Awards. She was honored with The American Express Tribute at the Helen Hayes Awards. Chita Rivera also won Best Actress - Musical from the Outer Critics Circle Awards for Kiss of the Spider Woman, along with Outstanding Actress - Musical from the Drama Desk Awards for the same production. The Drama League Awards recognized her with a Distinguished Achievement in Musical Theatre award. She took home the Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical at the Tony Awards for Kiss of the Spider Woman. Additionally, she received Outstanding Actress in a Musical from the Drama Desk Awards for The Rink, as well as another Tony Award for Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical for The Rink.
Videos