DJT Supporters
FOR KIDS, BY KIDS - NOW & FOREVER
Mary was our founder. Those who knew Mary know that she was a fierce supporter of the arts for kids. Her steadfast belief that every child should find his or her voice and speak well is why DJT is here.
That energy and mission remains pure. Whether onstage, in a board room, at a PTA meeting, or coaching a sports team, DJT gives kids the tools to speak their minds no matter where life leads.
We need your support to continue to carry DJT into the future.
All donations are tax deductible as a charitable gift, as Junior Theatre Inc is a 501-C-3 non-profit.
While we are proud that our most recent theatre renovation was a success, our work does not stop there. It will not be finished with the generation here today nor the generation of tomorrow. It will be carried forward, now & forever, by the kids to come and your support.
All donors will be recognized for a full year.
Donors listed in all programs, website and more.
Option to be anonymous is available.
It takes a village to build tomorrow.
LEVELS OF GIVING : OUR STORY
Nighswander Visionary Circle
$2,500 and Up
From 1951-1990, Mary was the driving force. Her vision is the foundation of our program today.
Leone Bredbeck Patrons
$1000 - $2499
Our co-founder, Leone first teamed up with Mary to run classes in the park. Leone and her husband, Walt, were key to the growth of DJT. Leone originated Showtime Pal.
Bonnie Guenther Benefactors
$500 - $999
Bonnie began as a volunteer in the 1960’s. Her long term commitment led her to run the organization,1990 - 2005. Bonnie saw herself as a proud caretaker of Mary’s legacy.
Brave, Bold Believers
$250 - $499
In the last decade, the staff and leadership at DJT have reinvigorated the program through commitment and passion, creating a DJT Renaissance.
Show Wagon Advocates
$100 - $249
From 1951-1978, DJT’s home moved 15 times. To have a stage for kids, we relied on three different models of our show wagon to carry us about the QC.
Mainstage Supporters
$50-$99
Star Child was our first Mainstage production in 1952. We are now America’s second oldest children’s theatre, entering our 67th season.
Showtime Pals
$49 & less
Originated by Leone Bredbeck, Showtime Pal is the spirit of DJT and opens every show to this day.
DONATE BY MAIL OR IN-PERSON
If you would prefer to donate with a check, it can be mailed to:
Davenport Junior Theatre
2822 Eastern Avenue
Davenport, IA 52803
Phone: (563) 326-7862 | Email
Thank you for your trust and support. You are making a difference in the lives of many young people!
JUST A FEW JT INC INITIATIVES
2022 - 70th Anniversary - A weekend celebration with an outdoor festival, mainstage production, and dinner on the great lawn. Alum from every decade came home to celebrate!
2022 - DJT Museum - The DJT museum is housed in one of our cottages and explores the many decades of DJT. This was made possible with our AmeriCorps members, relationship with Davenport Parks & Rec, and our donors.
2021 - Mainstage Improv Troupe - Launched our all new Mainstage Improv Troupe! This extension of the Mainstage Company is now a part of what we do!
2021 - LED Lighting Upgrade
Replaced failed dimmer rack and updated to all color versatile LED, smart system. Saving 73% on power; greener and cheaper!
2020 - Virtual Learning Channel - Launched a free series of DJT enrichment videos for kids to access.
2020 - Virtual Teaching Stations - Collaborated with Dav Parks and Rec to create ways to continue to hold classes during pandemic
2019 - Guthrie Theatre, Minneapolis - Students tour theatres, take workshops, and explore arts in the Twin Cities
2018 - Mary Fluhrer Nighswander Fund - Established to better serve kids by sustaining DJT efforts longterm
2018 - New Website Launched - All new features and integration helps reach families and tell our story.
2017 - Grand Renovation - $170,000 renovation of the Nighswander Theatre, thanks to the effort of many
2015 - Trip to Chicago - Newly added, students get to take trips to experience cities and theatres
2014 - Design Studio - Onsite recording studio, integrated with tech booth technologies
2013 - Student Directed One Acts - Aided by professional mentors for student directors and designers
2013 - Light the Way - All new lighting equipment and electrical upgrades
2012 - New Stage Curtains - All new grand drapes, travelers, valances, legs and more
2012 - Mia the Melodramatic - Collaboration with alum & author Eileen Boggess
2011 - Lobby Renovation - Removed walls and installed new box office counters
2011 - Midsummer - Tour of Shakespeare through parks in QC area
2010 - Jr Board Established - An advisory board made up of current DJT Mainstage kids
2010 - Stage to Page - All season, kids in audience received books tied to plays
Junior Theatre, Inc., the producing arm of Davenport Junior Theatre, is a non-profit organization that supports DJT programs, including Mainstage shows, the Junior Board, special workshops, facility improvements, educational trips, scholarships, class & camp support, and more.