Merel Poloway is a renowned American performer, celebrated for her work as a Broadway dancer and actress. She rose to prominence through her captivating stage presence, exceptional dance skills, and memorable performances in iconic Broadway productions.
Beyond her professional achievements, Poloway is widely recognized for her marriage to the acclaimed actor Raúl Juliá, forming a partnership admired both personally and publicly. Her journey from a passionate young dancer to a respected stage and screen performer reflects her dedication, perseverance, and unwavering love for the performing arts. Through her career and personal life, she continues to inspire aspiring dancers, actors, and performers around the world.
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| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Merel Poloway |
| Date of Birth / Age | 1946 (Age 79 in 2025) |
| Nationality | American |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown / Black |
| Height | Approx. 5’8” (estimated) |
| Bra Size | Not publicly disclosed |
| Net Worth | Estimated $2 Million – $4 Million |
| Profession | Broadway Dancer, Actress |
| Famous For | Broadway performances, marriage to Raúl Juliá |
| Spouse | Raúl Juliá (Married 1976 – 1994) |
| Children | Two sons – Raúl Sigmund and Benjamin |
| Notable Works | Seesaw, Rockabye Hamlet, Baby It’s You (1983) |
Who is Merel Poloway?
Merel Poloway was a tall, dark haired dancer who shone on Broadway from the 1960s through the late 1970s. She performed in numerous stage productions and later explored acting in the 1980s, playing Ms. Katz in the film Baby, It’s You! (1983). Her husband, Raúl Juliá, described her as “just me in a different body. A different costume,” highlighting their deep connection and shared outlook on life.
Merel and Raúl were very like-minded, and he fell deeply in love with her, determined to marry. They were dating for 7,8 years before tying the knot on June 28, 1976. Their wedding was conducted by the guru Baba Muktananda in a Hindu ceremony.They chosen to honor both their backgrounds Merel being Jewish and Raúl being a Hispanic Catholic.
Merel Poloway Love for Dance
Merel Poloway has always held a deep love for dance. From the age of three, she felt drawn to movement and rhythm. Even then, her natural talent quickly stood out. Both her parents and teachers recognized her gift. As a result, dance soon became more than a hobby. Instead, it turned into a passion and calling that shaped her choices.
Furthermore, her love for dance went beyond skill. She valued its power to express emotion and tell stories. She also cherished the chance to connect with audiences through movement. Even after stepping back from regular performing, dance stayed central in her life. Moreover, it influenced her acting, mentoring, and love for the arts. In the end, her devotion to dance defined her identity and legacy.
Merel Poloway’s Parents
Poloway was born into a supportive Jewish family in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Her parents played a crucial role in shaping her early life and encouraging her passion for the arts. From a young age, they recognized her natural talent for dance and performance and provided her with opportunities to explore her creativity.
Merel’s father also contributed to her development by emphasizing education and cultural awareness, ensuring she balanced her artistic pursuits with academic studies. He encouraged her to embrace her heritage and identity while also cultivating the skills necessary to succeed in a competitive industry.
Early Life and Childhood
She was born in 1946 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, into a Jewish family that valued culture and creativity. From a very young age, she displayed a natural inclination toward the arts, particularly dance. She began dancing at the age of three, and her parents supported her early training, recognizing her potential. In school, although she was initially shy, her love for performance quickly became evident.
She attended local schools while dedicating considerable time to dance classes, learning the fundamentals of movement, rhythm, and expression. This combination of academics and training provided her with a well rounded foundation, instilling in her the values of hard work, patience, and perseverance that would be essential in her demanding professional life.
Education and Dance Training
After finishing her early education, Merel Poloway moved to New York City. There, she began to pursue her dance career more seriously. She trained under renowned instructors and absorbed new techniques. In particular, she studied styles influenced by Martha Graham, a pioneer of modern dance. As a result, she developed a unique style that highlighted emotion, expression, and precision.
During this time, she also learned the demands of professional performance. She practiced ensemble work, improved her stage presence, and mastered choreography. Consequently, her training built stamina and versatility for Broadway. Moreover, she learned how to adapt quickly and follow direction with ease. She also collaborated with diverse performers in a professional setting. In the end, this foundation prepared her for lasting success in the performing arts.
Broadway Career of Merel Poloway
Poloway began performing professionally in the 1960s, and soon she made her mark on Broadway. She quickly joined major productions, including Seesaw (1973) and Rockabye Hamlet (1976). At first, she worked as a swing and ensemble member. During this time, she performed demanding choreographies while maintaining consistent excellence. As a result, her talent, grace, and professionalism earned her respect from both peers and critics.
Moreover, her Broadway years were not only about performance. Instead, they gave her the chance to master stagecraft. She gained valuable experience in timing, audience engagement, and emotional expression. Consequently, these skills expanded her versatility as a performer. Ultimately, her Broadway work solidified her reputation for dedication and skill, while also preparing her for a successful transition into acting.
Transition to Acting
In the late 1970s, Merel Poloway began exploring acting opportunities. She realized her stage experience could be effectively translated to film and television. She appeared in the film Baby It’s You (1983) as Miss Katz, demonstrating her ability to portray characters convincingly on screen. Poloway also participated in television specials and award shows, further showcasing her adaptability and talent.
Her transition was marked by determination and a willingness to expand her artistic repertoire. The skills she developed as a dancer discipline, timing, and expressive movement enhanced her acting performances. Poloway became known for her versatility, able to move seamlessly between dance, stage, and screen acting, a combination that few performers successfully achieve.
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How Merel Poloway Met Her Husband
Merel Poloway met Raúl Juliá in 1968. At that time, both worked on Illya Darling.
Theater brought them together and sparked connection. They shared a strong love for performing arts. Both remained passionate, creative, and committed to craft.As time passed, their bond grew naturally stronger. The professional connection slowly blossomed into romance. They began dating and supported each other deeply.
Together, they balanced careers and personal growth. After nearly eight years, they chose marriage. On June 28, 1976, they wed joyfully. A Hindu ceremony led by Baba Muktananda united them. Their marriage reflected admiration, values, and love for art. That bond sustained 18 years until Raúl’s passing.
Marriage to Raúl Juliá
Merel Poloway met Raúl Juliá in 1968 while performing in a Broadway production. Their shared passion for the arts fostered a strong connection, and they eventually married on June 28, 1976. Their wedding was unique, blending Jewish, Catholic, and Hindu traditions, reflecting both their cultural backgrounds. The couple’s relationship was characterized by mutual respect, partnership, and creative collaboration.
Together, they shared a deep appreciation for the arts, travel, and social responsibility. Poloway became both a partner and advocate in Juliá’s life, supporting his career while balancing her own artistic ambitions. Their marriage was widely recognized as an equal partnership, built on love, trust, and shared values.
Merel Poloway Children
Merel Poloway and Raúl Juliá had two sons, Raúl Sigmund Juliá and Benjamin Juliá. Their children were a central part of their family life, and Merel dedicated herself to raising them with love, care, and guidance.
She prioritized creating a stable and nurturing environment, balancing her responsibilities as a mother with her work in the performing arts. Merel and Raúl emphasized education, creativity, and cultural awareness, ensuring their children grew up with strong values and a sense of identity.
Life After Raúl Juliá
After the sudden passing of Raúl Juliá in 1994, Merel Poloway faced a profound personal and emotional transition. Losing her husband of 18 years was a significant moment in her life, but she focused on honoring his legacy while continuing to support her family. She dedicated herself to raising their two sons, Raúl Sigmund and Benjamin, ensuring they grew up with love, guidance, and strong values.
She attends theater events, Broadway programs, and cultural gatherings, keeping her engagement with the arts alive. Additionally, she occasionally mentors young dancers and actors, sharing her expertise and experiences from decades of work on Broadway and in film.Through her resilience and dedication,
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Legacy and Humanitarian Work
After the passing of Raúl Juliá in 1994, Merel Poloway continued to honor his memory and legacy. She accepted awards on his behalf and remained active in the performing arts community. Her contributions to theater and film are recognized widely, and she serves as an inspiration to dancers, actors, and aspiring performers.
life of her exemplifies dedication, resilience, and artistic integrity. Beyond her career, she has been involved in mentoring and supporting young performers, demonstrating her commitment to fostering talent and creativity. Her story highlights the importance of hard work, passion, and family, leaving an enduring legacy in both her personal and professional spheres.
What Merel Poloway Does Now
Merel Poloway has largely stepped away from the spotlight in recent years, focusing on a more private life after the passing of her husband, Raúl Juliá, in 1994. She continues to honor his legacy and keeps their family close, dedicating her time to her children and grandchildren.Although she is no longer performing regularly, Merel remains connected to the arts through attending theater events, cultural programs, and special Broadway occasions.
She is also involved in mentoring young performers, sharing her experiences and insights from decades of work in dance, Broadway, and acting.Merel’s life today reflects a combination of quiet personal fulfillment, family devotion, and ongoing support for the performing arts, keeping her connected to the world she helped shape during her career.
Her Children and Their Careers
Her and Raúl Juliá raised two sons. Their names are Raúl Sigmund Juliá and Benjamin Juliá. Both sons live private lives away from spotlight. Raúl Sigmund Juliá chose business and creative ventures. He avoids acting and follows a different career. He lives privately but honors his father’s legacy. He supports arts and cultural initiatives with dedication. He works to preserve Raúl Juliá’s lasting memory.
Benjamin Juliá, the younger son, values privacy too. He focuses on family and steady professional growth. He keeps a low profile in daily life. He also contributes to cultural and community projects. Both sons share values taught by their parents.
They embrace creativity, discipline, and cultural identity strongly.
Merel Poloway Net Worth
Merel Poloway has accumulated an estimated net worth of $2 million to $4 million over her career. Her wealth primarily comes from her work as a Broadway dancer and occasional acting roles, including her performance as Ms. Katz in Baby, It’s You! (1983).Although she stepped back from performing in later years. she also benefited from her marriage to Raúl Juliá, who was a highly successful actor.
Poloway’s disciplined approach to her career, combined with smart financial management, allowed her to maintain a comfortable and stable lifestyle after her husband’s passing.Beyond her professional earnings. she has also invested her time and resources in supporting the arts and mentoring young performers.
Conclusion
She shines as a remarkable figure in performing arts. Her journey reflects talent, dedication, and resilience. She began young as a dark-haired Broadway dancer.Later, she pursued acting with unwavering commitment. She delivered memorable Broadway performances with lasting impact. Her role in Baby, It’s You! (1983) impressed audiences. Her deep love for the arts inspired generations.
Together, they raised two sons with strong values. She taught them creativity, discipline, and cultural appreciation. After her husband’s death, Merel showed great strength. She maintained family bonds and guided young performers. She stayed connected to the theater community always. Merel Poloway’s story reflects passion, perseverance, and grace.
