Ariana DeBose Recreates Oscar-Winning 'West Side Story' Performance For Chita Rivera Tribute at Tony Awards 2024 - Watch Now!

Ariana DeBose helped pay tribute to the late Chita Rivera during the 2024 Tony Awards on SUnday night (June 16) in New York City.

During the tribute, the 33-year-old actress, who also hosted the ceremony, recreated part of the “America” dance from West Side Story, a role for which she won her 2022 Oscar for.

If you didn’t know, Chita actually originated the role of Anita in the original 1957 Broadway debut of the musical!

Keep reading to watch the performance…

“I literally would not be here without Chita blazin’ the trail for all who follow. Because of her, I am. Chita, from all of us, we will always love you,” Ariana said before breaking into the dance, which closed out the tribute.

Also taking part in the tribute and sharing remarks about Chita and her career were fellow past Tony winners Brian Stokes Mitchell, Bebe Neuwirth and Audra McDonald.

Check out the full Chita Rivera tribute at the Tonys here…