Summer Theater actress unmasks fundraising plan
Dancers twirl away during the 2019 Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre production of “Oklahoma!” From left: Dennie Thorpe, Jasmine Inman, Elizabeth Cook (center), Evelyn Peterson and Megan Ruth Smith.
Courtesy photo
Actress Ellie (Elizabeth) Cook poses with her mask donations. She is donating the proceeds to Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre.
Courtesy photo
Actress Ellie Cook participated in CDA Summer Theatre's 2019 season, an experience that left quite the impression on her.
Now, when theaters everywhere have gone dark for a time, she is giving back to our local professional theatre. On her Facebook page, Cook, of Ellensberg, Wash., posted the following:
"Hey everyone! I hope you are all staying safe and healthy in this craziness. I have been trying to find a way to stay busy and turn my anxieties into productivity. So I have been making personal protective face masks! In light of recent news from the CDC, they are recommending everyone to wear a face covering when going out in public. I turned to the Cook family fabric stash and got to sewing. If any of you need one, or know anyone who needs one please pm me or email me at elliejeancook@outlook.com! I will be selling these at $5 each including shipping, and donating the proceeds to Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre. If you want to donate directly to CST click the DONATE button below."
CDA Summer Theatre Artistic Director Stu Cabe was overwhelmed with gratitude. “When I saw that Ellie was donating the proceeds to the theatre, I actually fought back tears. Ellie’s gesture so beautifully bridged the gap between the things we need to live … and the things we live for. In this time of crisis, we as a society have turned to the arts (and artists) more than ever. And, when an artist like Ellie, who is personally struggling financially, chooses to give back in this way, you want to shout her generosity from the rooftops."
Tracey Vaughan, executive director, couldn't agree more. "We are facing unprecedented times, as individuals and as arts organizations. It is uplifting to see one of our own giving back and helping us as well as others! It gives us all a little more hope."
