The nominations for the prestigious Chita Rivera Awards have been announced, celebrating excellence in dance and choreography across stage and screen. Named after the legendary Broadway performer Chita Rivera, known for her iconic roles such as Anita in “West Side Story” and Velma in “Chicago,” this awards ceremony recognizes the remarkable talent within the performing arts.
This year, the distinguished Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to the celebrated performer Ben Vereen, honoring his extensive contributions to the field. The award ceremony is scheduled for May 19 at the Skirball Center for the Performing Arts, highlighting the achievements of artists in various dance categories.
The nominees for Outstanding Choreography in a Broadway Show include a diverse roster of talent, such as Joshua Bergasse for “Smash” and Jerry Mitchell for “Boop! The Musical.” In the category of Outstanding Dancer in a Broadway Show, several performers, including Angélica Beliard and Jonathan Groff, are in the running, showcasing the depth of talent within Broadway productions.
Other notable categories recognize ensemble performances and choreography in feature films, including “Wicked, Part 1,” choreographed by Christopher Scott, and dance documentaries, such as “A Resilient Man” directed by Stephane Carrel.
Produced by Joe Lanteri and in partnership with Patricia Watt, the event is not only an acknowledgment of artistic excellence but also benefits the NYC Dance Alliance Foundation College Scholarship Program, which has distributed $4 million to support over 400 dancers pursuing higher education in dance.
The awards committee, which includes esteemed figures like Sylviane Gold and Donna McKechnie, has carefully curated the nominations, ensuring recognition of the talented individuals making significant impacts in dance and choreography today.
This celebration of dance highlights the vibrant arts community and the continuing legacy of performers like Chita Rivera, inspiring future generations of dancers and choreographers to reach for excellence in their craft.