Mary L. Miller

Mary Miller was a professional modern dancer, choreographer, artistic director, and dance teacher.  Miller moved to Pittsburgh in 1982 after performing and teaching in Chicago, New York City, and Eugene, Oregon.  In Pittsburgh she established and served as the Artistic Director and Principal Choreographer (1984-2018) of the Mary Miller Dance Company. Her work included collaborations with poets, composers, musicians, fiber artists, writers, sculptors, and a robotics expert.  Her company performed at the Eddy Theater at Chatham College, City Theatre’s main stage, the Byham Theatre, the Kelly-Strayhorn and in the theater loft settings of the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre and CLO Academy.  Outdoor venues included Mellon Park (Bach, Beethoven, and Brunch), and Hartwood Acres. Mary’s company was known for its “Site Specific” works including performances at the courtyard of Hill House Association, the lobby of Magee Women’s Hospital, Oxford Centre, PPG Plaza, the Aqua Zoo of the Pittsburgh Zoo, the Phipps Conservatory and Mellon Square Park.

Miller taught dance at the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts and The Ellis School and was a long-term (1984-2001) teacher of creative movement, modern dance, and pre-ballet at the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre School.  She also was on the faculty of the Point Park International Summer Dance Program from 2013 through 2018.

Miller developed "Moving for Life!" - a unique movement program geared toward people of all ages, backgrounds, and physical/mental abilities so they can benefit from the magic of movement. Her company brought the program to PA School for the DEAF, the Pittsburgh School for the Blind, and the Kane Centers.

Mary Miller was 75 years old, and is survived by her husband, Sheldon Cohen. Please send contributions to the ALS Association Western PA Chapter.

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