Broadway Legend, Chita Rivera Endorses Marisa’s New and Upcoming Children’s Book; Book Release Date: Fall of 2011!
Extraordinary actress/singer/dancer and multiple Broadway Tony Award Winner, Chita Rivera, reviewed Marisa’s manuscript for her new and upcoming children’s book which is scheduled to be released in 2011. Chita loved the story and provided her glowing endorsement! Marisa and her husband, Vincent, were thrilled to meet Chita Rivera this past Saturday at one of her performances at the Lincoln Center in New York, after midnight. Ms. Rivera was absolutely amazing and still going strong! Chita’s Broadway credits include: Kiss of the Spider Woman, Bye Bye Birdie, Chicago, West Side Story, Chita & All That Jazz, etc. Ms. Rivera was born to Puerto Rican parents and grew up in the Bronx.
On August 12, 2009, Ms. Rivera received the Presidential Medal of Freedom at the White House. It’s America’s highest civilian honor. Congratulations Chita!
I couldn’t resist posting the following great video clips of Chita Rivera. She’s certainly a true talent! I hope you enjoy them. I certainly did!
Chita Rivera on the Judy Garland Show in 1963:
Chita Rivera on the Ed Sullivan Show:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=6993089738183823808#
Dinah Shore, Julie Andrews & Chita Rivera:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=6993089738183823808#docid=-8726369837893450767
Chita Rivera and Jack Cole:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZcwwcPvoCjU

The quintessential performer, Chita Rivera! Chita was so kind to give the okay for Marisa and her husband to meet her after her performance at the Lincoln Center in New York. Marisa presents a dozen roses to an especially fabulous woman. Brava, Chita!

This is Rosie, Chita Rivera's manager. Rosie is just wonderful and it was such a pleasure for Marisa and her husband to meet her as well. After reading There's a Coqui in My Shoe!, Rosie asked Marisa, "Did you know that Chita's sister's name is Lola and her brother's name is Armando?!" (Lola and Armando are character names in There's a Coqui in My Shoe!). Marisa had no idea of this! Marisa truly believes there are no coincidences in life: God is awesome and orchestrates the best surprises. Thanks again, Lord, for the ongoing adventure!

Marisa's supportive and gem-of-a-husband, Vincent, with Broadway Legend Chita Rivera after her performance at the Lincoln Center in New York. Even Vincent was taken back by Ms. Rivera's talent and beauty (inside and out)!