Arts & Entertainment

Chita Rivera Takes Center Stage In Wayne: See Where, When

The legendary actress, singer, and dancer will chat about her career at an event Monday, Oct. 30. Photo opportunities are available, too.

Actor Chita Rivera attends the Roundabout Theatre Company 2022 Gala at the Ziegfeld Ballroom on Monday, March 7, 2022, in New York.
Actor Chita Rivera attends the Roundabout Theatre Company 2022 Gala at the Ziegfeld Ballroom on Monday, March 7, 2022, in New York. (Photo by Andy Kropa/Invision/AP)

WAYNE, NJ — Tony Award-winning actress and singer Chita Rivera, an icon in the Broadway world, will discuss her storied career in a public event at William Paterson University later this month.

“A Conversation with Chita Rivera" is Monday, October 30, 2023 at 7:30 p.m. at William Paterson University’s Shea Center for Performing Arts. Rivera's lecture is part of the 42nd season of the University’s Distinguished Lecturer Series, the university said.

During a seven-decade career, Rivera has earned 10 Tony Award nominations and won Best Actress in a Musical twice. She has recently published a new book, "Chita: A Memoir," and pre-autographed books will be available on-site for purchase.

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William Paterson University President Dr. Richard J. Helldobler and 2010 graduate Robert Bannon will moderate the conversation with this triple-threat talent. The university said Helldobler holds a doctorate in theater, and is an experienced choreographer, director, and dancer. Bannon is an actor and singer, and host of YouTube talk show "The Roundtable."

To purchase tickets or for more information, contact the Shea Center Box Office at boxoffice@wpunj.edu, by phone at 973-720-2371 or online at www.wp-presents.org.

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Here are the ticket prices (see below for discounted ticket info and for students/staff):

  • $40 for Gold Circle seating (includes a photo opportunity for the first 50 ticket buyers with purchase of her new book)
  • $30 for Orchestra and Front Loge
  • $20 for Rear Loge

Discounted tickets are available for senior citizens and for William Paterson faculty, staff, and alumni. Willam Paterson students are eligible to receive one free ticket with a valid ID the day of the event. Rivera will not sign books in-person, but autographed copies of "Chita: A Memoir" will be available.

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