photo credit: Sarah Whitwell

Written by the No Square Board of Directors

No Square is deeply saddened by the news that Dana Cook, a beloved member of our theatre family, passed away suddenly earlier this month.

Dana was a longtime patron of No Square and an even longer-standing member of the Orange County theatre community. After a years-long absence from the stage, Dana returned to performing last summer in Bye Bye Birdie, marking her first show after retiring and her hopeful return to the art form she loved so deeply.

We had the privilege of experiencing her remarkable talent when she memorably portrayed the devoted and delightfully dramatic mother, Mae. Dana shared often how much joy she found in being back on stage and how grateful she was to reconnect with theatre and to get to know the cast and creative team.

From Bye Bye Birdie director and longtime friend Karen Rymar:

“Dana was joy, light, and love.

She had a wonderful time returning to the stage and cherished every moment with this cast and community. She will be deeply missed.”

Dana was known not only for her talent on stage, but also for her kindness, generosity, and unwavering support of fellow actors and production teams both on and off the stage.

Our hearts and condolences go out to her husband, Michael, and her children, Dylan, Emily, and Hailey, during this incredibly difficult time.

Dana’s presence, spirit, and love of theatre will be deeply missed, and her legacy will remain a part of No Square forever.