The Biography

Chita Rivera (January 23, 1933 - January 30, 2024) was an American actress, dancer, and singer best known for creating roles in musical theatre hits such as Anita in "West Side Story," Rosie in "Bye Bye Birdie," Velma in "Chicago" and Aurora in "Kiss of the Spider Woman." She received 2 Tony Awards (from a record 10 nominations), a Kennedy Center Honor and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.