One That Got Away: Chita Rivera: The Dancer's Life

One That Got Away:

Chita Rivera: The Dancer's Life (2005)

Chita Rivera has been a performer I've looked up to and revered almost since I began following and learning about Broadway musicals. Over the years, I've had the pleasure of seeing her perform on Broadway, on National Tour, and on film. I even had a chance to speak with her, ever so briefly when I stage doored Kiss of the Spider Woman. It was a moment I'll never forget. With her passing, I am even more grateful for all those opportunities, but, of course, there is some regret for opportunities lost. One that got away was her autobiographical show, Chita Rivera: The Dancer's Life, a production that I could have seen when I was in town (the same week Dick van Dyke guest starred). We could have gotten tickets. We should have gotten tickets. 

Chita Rivera: The Dancer's Life began its 20 previews on November 23, 2005. It then opened at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre, where it ran for 72 performances, closing on February 19, 2006. Ms. Rivera was nominated for a 2006 Best Actress in a Musical Tony Award.