We are saddened to bid farewell to the extraordinary Broadway actor and voice actor, Ken Page, who passed away at the age of 70. With his unforgettable performances and exceptional voice, Page forever left his mark on the world of musical theater.
A Star is Born
Born and raised in St. Louis, Page’s journey to stardom began on the Broadway stage in 1975. His breakthrough role as the Lion in “The Wiz” showcased his incredible talent and charisma, setting the stage for over two decades of diverse and captivating performances in the heart of New York City.
Unforgettable Performances
From 1975 to 1999, Page graced the stage with his extraordinary abilities in productions like “Guys and Dolls,” “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” and the original production of “Cats,” where he brought the character of Old Deuteronomy to life. His talent was widely recognized, as he received the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Actor in a Musical in 1978 for his performance in “Ain’t Misbehavin’.”
Voice of a Legend
Page’s talents were not limited to the stage. He contributed his warm and mischievous voice to the character of Oogie Boogie in the beloved film “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” Fans all over the world cherish this iconic portrayal, which extended beyond the original film into video games and live performances, including a memorable show at the Hollywood Bowl.
A Diverse Career
Page’s acting career extended beyond Broadway and film. He showcased his versatility in movies such as “Showgirls,” “Torch Song Trilogy,” and “All Dogs Go to Heaven.” Page also reprised his role in “Cats” for the 1998 movie adaptation.
A Creative Soul
Always exploring new avenues of creativity, Page developed a one-man, cabaret-style show called “Page by Page,” delighting audiences as he traveled across the country with his unique performances. He also honed his skills as a director, collaborating frequently with The Muny, a theater company in St. Louis where his career began.
Fond Remembrances
The passing of Ken Page has left a void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Composer Danny Elfman, renowned for the enchanting music of “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” expressed his shock and shared warm memories of Page’s infectious joy, talent, and generosity.
Page’s co-star, Chris Sarandon, also paid a heartfelt tribute, describing him as a man with a big heart and voice, whose friendship he deeply treasured. Sarandon shared cherished memories and captured moments of camaraderie on social media, honoring the legacy of a true legend.
A True Icon
Director Henry Selick, known for his work on “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” celebrated Page as an icon among movie villains. He hailed Page’s portrayal of Oogie Boogie as legendary and fondly remembered his professionalism, warmth, and humor.
A Lasting Legacy
Ken Page’s life and career have left an indelible imprint on the world of entertainment. His remarkable talent and vibrant spirit will be cherished and celebrated by fans and fellow performers for years to come. We are grateful for the joy he brought us and the lasting memories he leaves behind.
