There are just some people whose resume would leave you breathless. These people have been taking the world by storm for decades, but make it seem effortless. It makes me feel a little inadequate in my own personal accomplishments!
One of these people is the legendary actress and dancer, Chita Rivera. Having been cast in a few Broadway shows since 1952, it was in 1957 that she was cast in what would be her breakthrough role– that of “Anita” in the Broadway production of West Side Story.
A Broadway institution, Rivera has continued performing into her late seventies.
Ms. Rivera also originated the role of “Velma Kelly” for Chicago in 1975.
You would think she’d be jaded from being called a “living legend,” but apparently, she’s not. In fact, she has been lauded for her commitment and dedication to sharing her passion for dance with others. In March 2008, Boston Youth Moves, a non-profit organization that encourages artistic expression in young people through dance, recognized her at their black-tie gala with their Boston Youth Moves Lifetime Achievement Award.
In 2008, Rivera added a second benefit concert to one already scheduled titled “Chita Loves Broadway Cares.” All of the proceeds went toward Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.
She has also garnered more official accolades for her accomplishments. In August of last year, Pres. Barack Obama presented Rivera with the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Rivera was also “the first Hispanic woman to receive a Kennedy Center Honors award,” back in 2002. She also conceived a musical revue based on her dancing career, aptly titled “Chita Rivera: The Dancer’s Life.” It has since closed on Broadway, but Rivera continued touring with it across the nation.
Such a Latina legend (She’s half-Puerto Rican!) would be a wonderful voice to the spina bifida cause. Again, since Hispanics are the ethnic group with the highest incidence rate of this condition, Rivera’s endorsement would be a great asset to our efforts.
I am very thrilled to be writing to her! Stay tuned for whatever unfolds.
Love,
Laurita ♥
© 2010, Laurita. All rights reserved.
