Chita Rivera

Date of Birth: January 23, 1933

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Biography

Chita Rivera, born Dolores Conchita Figueroa del Rivero, is an iconic American actress, singer, and dancer renowned for her work in musical theater. She was born on January 23, 1933, in Washington, D.C. Her career spans over seven decades, during which she has become one of the most celebrated performers on Broadway. Rivera’s breakthrough came with her role as Anita in the original Broadway production of “West Side Story” in 1957. She has also starred in other acclaimed productions such as “Chicago,” “Bye Bye Birdie,” and “Kiss of the Spider Woman.” Rivera has received numerous accolades, including two Tony Awards for Best Leading Actress in a Musical and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009. Her influence and contributions to the arts have made her a beloved figure in American theater.

5 Interesting Facts about Chita Rivera

1. Chita Rivera was the first Hispanic woman to receive a Kennedy Center Honor in 2002.

2. She was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama in 2009.

3. Rivera originated the role of Velma Kelly in the original Broadway production of “Chicago” in 1975.

4. She has been nominated for the Tony Award ten times and won twice, for “The Rink” (1984) and “Kiss of the Spider Woman” (1993).

5. Chita Rivera performed at the White House for President Gerald Ford in 1976.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Chita Rivera

1. “I have a room for my awards and a room for my shoes. They’re both huge.”

2. “The theater is magical because it’s so alive. It’s so spontaneous. It changes every night.”

3. “You must always be yourself, and do things that will make you more of yourself. Always be you – that’s the best advice I can give.”

4. “I love to work. I love the challenge and the process. I love the end result, the applause.”

5. “You can either be a diva or a survivor. I decided to be a survivor.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Highest net worth achieved: Approximately $2 million

Children

Chita Rivera has one daughter, Lisa Mordente, who was born on July 30, 1958. Lisa is also an actress and dancer, following in her mother’s footsteps in the entertainment industry.