Faces of DYPAC: Mary Zaleski

Mary is the Director of Programming and Development on the Board of Directors. She is also the on-site director of DYPAC’s Summer Fine Arts Camp, and runs DYPAC’s workshop series three times per year.

Bio

Mary grew up in St. Joseph, MI where she started doing theatre at a very young age. She has lived in Southgate, MI or Wyandotte, MI since 1983. She moved to the area when she married her husband, Dave, who is originally from Trenton. She went to Lake Michigan College and Grand Valley State where she majored in Theater and Psychology.

What did you want to be growing up?

I have always wanted to work with children.

When did you get involved with DYPAC?

I got involved with DYPAC when I applied to direct their 2002 production of "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers".  I have been working with them ever since. 

How does DYPAC fulfill you?

DYPAC lets me have the opportunity to work with school age kids, involving them in many aspects of the arts. When I was in school, we had the opportunity to participate in many aspects of the arts; music, theatre, band, orchestra, etc. These days, because of school cutbacks, many kids aren't given those opportunities. I believe that everyone that is interested in the arts should be able to try them out. 

How does DYPAC benefit the community?

DYPAC puts on family friendly shows that everyone can attend. We offer downriver kids the opportunity to participate in the arts in a safe learning environment, where they can be mentored by others, learn self-confidence and make many new friendships along the way. We also teach the kids about how important it is to give back to the community. For example: A group of DYPAC kids just performed for the Josephine Ford Cancer Center Gala to raise money for new chemo chairs.