Introduction
Anthony “Tony” Mordente is a well-known actor, dancer, and choreographer. He is most famous for his role as “Action” in the original Broadway production of West Side Story. Tony also collaborated extensively with Chita Rivera, a legendary actress and dancer, on several Broadway shows.
Early Life and Career
Tony Mordente was born on December 3, 1935, in New York City. He began his career as a dancer in the 1950s, performing in various Broadway productions. In 1957, he landed the role of “Action” in West Side Story, which would become his most famous role.
After his success in West Side Story, Tony continued to work on Broadway as a dancer and choreographer. He worked on several shows, including How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying and I Can Get It for You Wholesale.
Collaboration with Chita Rivera
Tony Mordente and Chita Rivera first worked together on the Broadway production of Bye Bye Birdie in 1960. They went on to collaborate on several other shows, including Chicago and Sweet Charity. Tony choreographed the dance numbers for these shows, while Chita starred in them.
Chita and Tony’s collaboration was not limited to the stage. They also worked together on television, choreographing dance numbers for The Carol Burnett Show and The Ed Sullivan Show.
Later Career
In the 1970s, Tony Mordente began to focus more on directing and choreography. He directed several episodes of the television show Fame, as well as the film version of A Chorus Line. He also worked as a choreographer on the films Grease and Saturday Night Fever.
Despite his success as a director and choreographer, Tony never forgot his roots as a dancer. He continued to perform on occasion, including a reunion performance of West Side Story in 1980.
Personal Life
Tony Mordente was married to dancer and choreographer Graciela Daniele from 1966 to 1973. They had one daughter together, Adriana Mordente, who is also a dancer and choreographer. Tony was also a close friend of Chita Rivera, and the two remained collaborators and confidants for many years.
Conclusion
Tony Mordente’s contributions to Broadway and the world of dance are significant and enduring. His work on West Side Story and his collaborations with Chita Rivera will always be remembered as some of the most iconic moments in the history of American theater.
FAQ
Who is Tony Mordente?
Tony Mordente is an American actor, director, and choreographer. He is best known for his role as A-Rab in the original Broadway production of West Side Story.
What is West Side Story?
West Side Story is a musical that was first performed on Broadway in 1957. It is a modern retelling of William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, set in New York City’s Upper West Side in the 1950s.
What was Tony Mordente’s role in West Side Story?
Tony Mordente played the role of A-Rab, a member of the Jets gang in the original Broadway production of West Side Story.
What other roles has Tony Mordente played?
Tony Mordente has also appeared in several other Broadway productions, including Oh, Captain! and I Had a Ball. He has also acted in films and television shows, including The Greatest Story Ever Told and Law & Order.
What is Tony Mordente’s collaboration with Chita Rivera?
Tony Mordente directed and choreographed several productions featuring Chita Rivera, including the original Broadway production of Chicago and the film adaptation of Sweet Charity.
