Marie Swajeski, founder and longtime artistic director of the Delaware Children’s Theatre, is remembered for her decades of leadership in family theatre and for preserving one of Wilmington’s historic landmarks.
Marie began her theatrical work with her traveling performers troupe, the Children’s Repertory Theatre. She took staged productions into schools, churches, and parks—introducing children to live theatre long before arts access was commonplace. Marie found a permanent home for her group in the historic New Century Club, a former women’s club that Marie and her husband, John Swajeski, purchased—saving it from demolition. She re-named her group Delaware Children’s Theatre (DCT) which has flourished under Swajeski and family for 52 seasons, producing children’s musicals, classic stories, and educational programs.
Over the years Marie has received numerous honors, including the prestigious Woman of the Year award, Induction into the Delaware Women’s Hall of Fame and The Governor’s Award for the Arts. Delaware lawmakers declared September 18 “Marie Swajeski” day in honor of her outstanding achievements in family entertainment.
Marie has inspired so many families and leaves behind a shining legacy of creativity, mentorship, and community service. She is survived by her children, Donna and David Swajeski, who continue running her theatre and preserving her work and her historic theatre for future generations. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Delaware Children’s Theatre.
Marie’s Funeral will be on Friday December 5 at Saint Joseph’s on the Brandywine, 10 Old Church Rd, Wilmington, DE. There will be a viewing at the church from 10 to 11 with a Mass at 11. Additionally, there will be a Celebration of her life at DCT, 1014 Delaware Ave, Wilmington, DE , on January 23rd, 7:00 PM, where everyone is invited to come share memories and gather together.
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