Lee, Mary Ann (1823–1899)

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Lee, Mary Ann (1823–1899)

American dancer. Name variations: May Ann Vanhook. Born Mary Ann Lee, July 1823, in Philadelphia, PA; died Jan 25, 1899, in Philadelphia; dau. of theatrical parents, Charles and Wilhelmina Lee; studied under Jean Coralli at Paris Opéra; m. William F. Vanhook (Philadelphia dry goods merchant, later deputy sheriff), Nov 11, 1847 (died 1889); children: Marie (b, 1850), Charles (b. 1851, died in infancy), and Mabel (b. 1854).

Made 1st appearance as dancer in The Maid of Cashmere (1837), in which Augusta Maywood also debuted; made NY debut in interlude selection from The Maid of Cashmere at Bowery Theatre (1839); was popular favorite by 1844; with G. Washington Smith, formed ballet company (1845) and presented European dance works; was 1st American to dance Giselle (1846) at Howard Athenaeum, Boston; appeared in La Muette de Portici (1852 and 1853); retired shortly after marriage.