03/27/2026
We at ZEN are devastated at the loss of James “Cap” Quirindongo. Cap was one of the founders of ZEN, alongside his wife, Jordana Dlugacz. He was our technical director, and he directed our productions of Little Shop of Horrors and Beetlejuice. He created the wonderful and whimsical puppets and set pieces that made Beetlejuice and Nightmare Before Christmas shine. Cap’s memorable turns in RHPS as the Criminologist were audience favorites, and he always had a fun and unique costume that we looked forward to every year, some of which are pictured here.
But most importantly, Cap was a friend, a father figure, someone who was always there for his cast. He was hysterically funny and behind his gruff exterior he was incredibly kind. He cooked us delicious meals and he fixed our cars. Every year he would bake birthday cakes for each of the cast and crew members, remembering their favorite kind. Cap had a huge heart and he was always there for us. We love and miss him, and our hearts are heavy.
A fundraiser was set up for his medical expenses, which is linked below. We are leaving it up, as we hope to ease the burden on Jordana during this unimaginably difficult time for her. Anything raised will go towards Cap’s funeral expenses and to help Jordana with the remaining medical expenses. We thank everyone who has shared and donated from the bottom of our hearts.
http://spot.fund/z162n2hsc
