Use is or was when one is still alive

[Ju]

Mary danced on the stage yesterday. She was cute.

Can I use "is" to replace "was" since Mary is still alive?

Thanks.

 

[bubbha]

In this context:

Use "was" if you are remarking about her cuteness as she danced on stage.

Use "is" if you're commenting on how cute you think Mary is in general (i.e., cuteness is part of her nature). The sentence "She is cute" is independent from the previous sentence.