The 1,290-seat Cook Auditorium is AUHSD’S largest and oldest theater. While available to Anaheim students and citizens, it is primarily used by the District’s 10 high and eight middle schools.
Cook is equipped with a fly to hang curtains and backdrops, allowing for professional-level theatrical performances. Of special note is a Robert Morton Pipe Organ that was added to the auditorium in 1940.
Cook Auditorium was constructed as part of a Federal Public Works Project to rebuild Anaheim High School after the 1933 Long Beach earthquake. The newly constructed school and auditorium were opened to the public in 1936.
The auditorium is named after William Cook, a champion of music education for Anaheim school children, spearheading the development of music programs in new schools being built by the district, while also serving as Anaheim High’s band and orchestra director.
