Marie Swajeski, Founder of Delaware Children’s Theater, Remembered for legacy of Arts Access and Preservation
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Marie Swajeski, the founder and longtime artistic director of the Delaware Children’s Theatre (DCT), passed away on December 5, 2024, leaving behind a significant legacy in family theatre and historic preservation in Wilmington, Delaware. She is celebrated for bringing live theatre too children across the state for decades and for saving a historic building from demolition.
Early Career and the Children’s Repertory Theatre
Swajeski began her theatrical work with the Children’s Repertory Theatre, a traveling troupe that performed in schools, churches, and parks. This initiative was especially impactful as it provided access to live theatre for children at a time when such opportunities were not widely available. She recognized the importance of arts education and dedicated herself to making it accessible to young audiences.
Founding and Growth of the Delaware Children’s Theatre
In 1973, Swajeski secured a permanent home for her theatre company by purchasing the historic New Century Club building, a former women’s club, with her husband, John Swajeski. This purchase saved the building from potential demolition and provided a dedicated space for the theatre to flourish. She renamed the company the Delaware Children’s Theatre, and under her leadership, it has produced 52 seasons of children’s musicals, classic stories, and educational programs. https://www.delawarechildrenstheatre.org/about-us/history/
A Historic Venue
The New Century Club building,located at 1014 Delaware Avenue in Wilmington,is a significant landmark. Built in 1913, it originally served as a social and cultural hub for women in the community. Its preservation by the Swajeskis ensured that this piece of Wilmington’s history would continue to be enjoyed by future generations. https://history.delaware.gov/historic-markers/delaware-avenue-historic-district/
Recognition and Awards
Marie Swajeski received numerous accolades throughout her career,recognizing her contributions to the arts and the community. these include:
* The woman of the Year award
* Induction into the Delaware Women’s Hall of Fame
* The Governor’s award for the Arts
In recognition of her outstanding achievements, Delaware lawmakers proclaimed September 18th as “Marie Swajeski Day.” https://news.delaware.gov/2018/09/18/governor-carney-proclaims-september-18-marie-swajeski-day/
Continuing Legacy
Marie Swajeski is survived by her children, Donna and David Swajeski, who are continuing to run the Delaware Children’s theatre and preserve her work. They are committed to maintaining the theatre’s mission of providing high-quality, accessible arts experiences for children and families.
Memorial Services and Donations
A funeral service was held on december 5, 2024, at Saint Joseph’s on the Brandywine in Wilmington. A Celebration of Life was held at the Delaware Children’s Theatre on January 23, 2025, offering an opportunity for the community to share memories and celebrate Swajeski’s life.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Delaware Children’s Theatre to support its ongoing programs and preservation efforts. https://www.delawarechildrenstheatre.org/support-dct/donate/
Marie Swajeski’s dedication to arts education, community service, and historic preservation has left an indelible mark on Delaware. Her legacy will continue to inspire and enrich the lives of children and families for years to come through the continued work of the Delaware Children’s Theatre.
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