Diana Pilarski
Performer, Choreographer, Educator, Master's in Dance/Movement Therapy
Diana Pilarski is a lifelong dancer and seasoned performer whose passions bridge the worlds of expressive arts, psychology and dance. With over two decades of experience spanning performance, choreography, teaching and therapeutic practice, Diana brings a deep understanding of the human body, mind, and spirit. Her journey—both on the stage and in clinical settings—reflects a lifelong commitment to the transformative power of movement. Whether helping individuals heal through movement or crafting performances that move audiences, Diana’s work is grounded in empathy, creative expression, and holistic well-being.
A Lifelong Dedication to the Art and Science of Movement
From early tap, jazz and ballet classes to leading therapeutic movement sessions in hospitals and schools, Diana Pilarski’s work is rooted in the belief that movement can foster connection, personal growth and joy. With a Master’s degree in Dance/Movement Therapy from Drexel University and over two decades of experience in performance and choreography, Diana integrates psychological insight with developmental movement knowledge and creative expression. Her training at institutions like the Boston Ballet and her work with diverse communities, including children, adults, and caregivers, equips her with a dynamic, inclusive approach that honors both the emotional and physical aspects of each individual she works with.
Education and Training
Adaptive Dance Teacher Training
Boston Ballet
Boston, MA
2024
Master of Arts - Dance/Movement Therapy (DMT)
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA
2008
Thesis: The Experience of Younger Women Diagnosed with Breast Cancer Involved in Dance/Movement Therapy with Regards to Body Image and Sexuality
Bachelor of Arts
Major: Psychology, Minor: Dance
Niagara University
Lewiston, NY
2005
Janet Dunstan’s Dance Academy
Niagara Falls, NY
1990- 2001
Performance Experience
Niagara University’s Dance Line Member
Niagara University
Niagara Falls, NY
2003-2005
Lipshitz, Ensemble Dancer- Chicago
Niagara Fine Arts Program
Niagara Falls, NY
2005
Company Member + Choreographer
OnStage Dance Company
Boston, MA
2011
Lead Dancer- ‘The Moon’
Heartbeat: A Modern Dance Rock Concert
Cambridge, MA
2013- 2014
Boston.com press
Promotional video
Company Member + Choreographer
Alive Dance Collective
Boston, MA
2014 - 2025
Alive Dance Collective Website
Additional Performance Experience
- Co-choreographed and performed at House of Blues Boston for EF’s Got Talent (Won Grand Prize)
- 24-hour ChoreoFest
- Vermont State Dance Festival
- aMaSSiT
- Porchfest
- NACHMO
Related Work Experience
Dance/Movement Therapist Intern
Northern Home at Levering Elementary School
Philadelphia, PA
2007
• Established, created, led and co-led DMT sessions for children needing extra support for target behaviors and behavior disorders
• Sessions promoted and taught creative expression, coping skills, problem-solving skills and communicationDance/Movement Therapist Intern
Girard Medical Center
Philadelphia, PA
2007- 2008
• Created, led and co-led DMT sessions for adults with co-occurring disorders, primarily focusing on grounding techniques, mindfulness and coping skillsDance/Movement Therapy Intern
Hahnemann University Hospital
Philadelphia, PA
2007- 2008
• Provided individual and group movement psychotherapy support sessions for both cancer patients and caregivers on inpatient and outpatient units
• Sessions were designed to address and explore self-advocacy, pain management, body image and mindfulnessMovement Specialist
Mama & Me
Jamaica Plain, MA
2011- 2012
• Designed and led developmentally appropriate movement classes for children ages 2-4 years old, aimed at maximizing each child’s creativity, gross motor skills, and social development, utilizing movement, art, storytelling, dramatic play, and music activities
• Created and instructed caregiver/child movement classes to promote connection and bonding via novel and stimulating movement activitiesBallet Instructor and Assistant Instructor
DanceFIT Studio
Brookline, MA
2013 – 2014
• Assisted and instructed ballet classes for children ages 3-6 years old, introducing them to basic movements, coordination, creative self-expression, and rhythm.