Lillian Cushing Materials, 1920-1970

Lillian Cushing McFarlane, born in 1900, began teaching dance at age 14. In 1922, she founded her own School of the Dance in Denver. She was well known for the rigorous ballet teachings with many successful students. In 1932, Lillian Cushing was chosen as choreographer for Central City Opera. She served as choreographer until 1968. She also choreographed pieces for the Denver Post Opera and the Denver Opera Association. In 1942 her own work “The Ballet of Miracles” with music by Waldo Williamson, was performed by the Denver Symphony. Lillian married Frederick McFarlane, son of the owner of the Central City Opera House, in 1950. She passed away in 1975.