Ken Page, a renowned Broadway actor whose unforgettable performances in iconic musicals like The Wiz, Ain’t Misbehavin’, and Cats left an unforgettable mark on the theater world, has passed away at the age of 70.
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Early Years and Breakthrough in ‘The Wiz’
Born on January 20, 1954, in St. Louis, Missouri, Ken Page’s path to stardom began in 1975 when he burst onto the Broadway scene. Making his debut as the Cowardly Lion in the hit musical The Wiz, Page’s performance quickly catapulted him to fame. His portrayal of the iconic Lion captivated audiences and established him as a major force in musical theater, earning praise for his vibrant stage presence and expressive performances.
Versatility and Range in Broadway’s Best
Following the success of The Wiz, Page continued to showcase his versatility as a performer. In 1976, he played Nicely-Nicely Johnson in a Broadway revival of Guys and Dolls, but it was his role in Ain’t Misbehavin’ that cemented his place among Broadway’s elite.
The musical, a celebration of Fats Waller’s music, allowed Page to display his rich vocal talent and magnetic stage presence. His performance was widely praised, adding another triumph to his growing list of achievements.
Iconic Roles
One of Ken Page’s most memorable performances came in 1982 when he originated the role of Old Deuteronomy in the original Broadway production of Cats. As the wise and kind-hearted leader of the Jellicle cats, Page’s deep, resonant voice and dignified portrayal of the character became a defining feature of the show. His performance left a lasting impact on audiences, making Old Deuteronomy one of the most beloved roles in musical theater history.
Beyond Broadway
While Page is best known for his work on Broadway, his talents extended far beyond the bright lights of New York. He was a frequent performer at the Muny in his hometown of St. Louis, where he appeared in countless productions over the years. His versatility shone through in his cabaret show, Page by Page, where he effortlessly blended storytelling and singing, delighting audiences with his warmth and charm.
Film and Voice Work
Ken Page’s talents weren’t confined to the stage. He made his film debut in Torch Song Trilogy (1988) and later appeared in Dreamgirls (2006). However, his most notable contribution to film came in the world of animation. Page provided the unforgettable voice of Oogie Boogie, the mischievous villain in Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993).
His performance, along with his distinctive voice, has become a cherished part of pop culture, solidifying his place in entertainment history. Page also voiced King Gator in All Dogs Go to Heaven (1989), further showcasing his diverse talents.
A Presence on Television
Page’s charisma extended to television, where he made his small-screen debut alongside his Ain’t Misbehavin’ co-star Nell Carter on Gimme a Break! in 1984. He later starred as a regular on the short-lived series Sable (1987-1988) and appeared as a guest star in popular shows such as Family Matters, South Central, and Touched by an Angel.
One of his most distinctive TV roles was as the Walrus on the live-action series Adventures in Wonderland from 1993 to 1994, demonstrating his ability to bring larger-than-life characters to life in various mediums.
A Beloved Figure Remembered
Ken Page’s contributions to the world of theater and entertainment spanned decades, and his death marks a significant loss for the Broadway community. Friends, colleagues, and fans have expressed their sorrow, reflecting on the profound impact he had on their lives and careers. Known not only for his incredible talent but also for his kindness and generosity, Page was a beloved figure both on and off the stage.
