Chita Rivera
CHITA RIVERA An accomplished and versatile actress/singer/dancer, Ms. Rivera has won two Tony Awards (Kiss of the Spider Woman, The Rink) and received six additional Tony nominations. She recently starred on Broadway in the revival of the musical Nine with Antonio Banderas. In December, 2002, she received the coveted Kennedy Center Honor in Washington, DC. Ms. Rivera created the role of Velma Kelly in the original Broadway production of Chicago opposite Gwen Verdon (1975) and appears in the film version. Chita starred in the London, Las Vegas and Toronto productions of Chicago The Musical. Her recent starring roles include the new Kander/Ebb/McNally musical The Visit (Goodman Theatre) and The House of Bernarda Alba (Mark Taper Forum). Chita trained as a ballerina (age 11) before receiving a scholarship to the American School of Ballet from the legendary George Balanchine. Her first appearance (age 17) was in the chorus of Call Me Madam. Her electric performance as Anita in the Broadway premiere of West Side Story (1957) brought her stardom, which was repeated in London. Her career is highlighted by starring roles in Bye Bye Birdie and Jerry's Girls (original Broadway casts), 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; and Can-Can with the Rockettes. Chita played Nicky in the film version of Sweet Charity with Shirley MacLaine. Her most treasured production is her daughter, singer/dancer/choreographer Lisa Mordente. Bio as of February, 2007. American Theatre Wing programs, interviews and/or credits include: Working in the Theatre (video) Production: Kiss of the Spider Woman - September, 1993 - Watch now. Internet Broadway Database Listing (IBDB.com)