Delaware Children’s Theatre Cabaret Celebrates “Marie Swajeski Day” and a Legacy of Lifelong Love of the Performing Arts

Wilmington, Del. — August 18, 2025   The Delaware Children’s Theatre (DCT) will open its 2025–2026 season with a celebration that blends music, friendship, and a deep-rooted mission to inspire a lifelong love of the arts.

On September 20th, DCT will present The Return of the Treblemakers, a wine-and-cheese cabaret fundraiser that also honors “Marie Swajeski Day,” first proclaimed by then-Governor Tom Carper. Marie Swajeski founded DCT in 1972 with the vision of introducing the performing arts to Delaware’s children—sparking an appreciation for music and theatre that could last a lifetime, no matter where those children’s lives might take them.

“Every child who sits in our audience is experiencing something that could change the course of their life,” said Donna Swajeski, Emmy Award–winning television writer and Artistic Director of DCT. “My mother believed in the transformative power of theatre, and I’m proud to carry that mission forward. We’re not just putting on plays—we’re building a community that will always embrace the arts.”

A Story of Friendship and Music

The Return of the Treblemakers tells the story of three women—once an inseparable musical trio—reuniting at the café where their journey began. Years have passed, life has changed, and the café’s final night brings them back together to share memories, music, and the bonds of friendship that time could not break. The show features accomplished performers Kate Pigliacampi, Mary Kaye Anthony, and Laura Moss.

As they revisit their greatest songs, their story becomes a metaphor for DCT’s mission.  The show is about the introduction of music into our lives in a way that stays with us forever, forming connections and passions that resurface throughout their lives. This has always been part of the DCT’s mission.  “When children are exposed to music and performance early, it becomes part of who they are,” Donna said. “That spark doesn’t fade—it’s something they carry with them wherever they go.”

Celebrating a Legacy

The cabaret’s proceeds support DCT’s productions, youth workshops, and master classes. This year’s mainstage season includes Descendants, Shrek the Musical, Charlotte’s Web, and the original Rapunzel and the Witch.

Housed in the historic New Century Club—a Colonial Revival landmark built in 1893—DCT is powered by volunteers and supported by the Delaware Division of the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts. It has introduced generations of children to live performance, including Tony Award winner John Gallagher Jr., who first appeared on its stage as Tom Sawyer.

“When a child hears that first note or sees the curtain rise, they’re stepping into a world that can shape the rest of their life,” Donna said. “That’s the kind of moment we strive to create every season.”

Event Details

The Return of the Treblemakers
September 19–20, 7:30 p.m.
Delaware Children’s Theatre, 1014 Delaware Ave., Wilmington
Tickets: www.dechildrenstheatre.org

Wine and cheese will be served. All are welcome to join this evening of music, friendship, and community while honoring the woman who gave Delaware’s children their first stage.

EDITOR’S FACTBOX:  Marie Swajeski Day – Honoring a Delaware Arts Legacy

A Founder with a Vision
Marie Swajeski founded the Delaware Children’s Theatre in 1972 with one purpose: to introduce children to the performing arts and spark a love of theatre that would stay with them for a lifetime.

A Statewide Tribute
In recognition of her work, then-Governor Tom Carper proclaimed Marie Swajeski Day in Delaware—a celebration still observed each September to honor her impact on generations of young audiences.

A Legacy in Capable Hands
Now retired and living in North Wilmington, Marie’s mission continues under the leadership of her daughter, Donna Swajeski, an Emmy Award–winning television writer who assumed the helm of DCT after Marie stepped away from day-to-day operations. As Artistic Director, Donna has expanded the theatre’s reach while preserving its tradition of affordable, high-quality productions for families.

Why It Matters Today
“Every child who sits in our audience is experiencing something that could change the course of their life,” Donna said. “My mother believed in that transformative power of theatre, and I’m proud to carry that mission forward. We’re not just putting on plays—we’re building a community that will always embrace the arts.”

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