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Kenneth Page (January 20, 1954 – September 30, 2024) was an American actor and cabaret singer who created the part of Ken in the original Broadway production of Ain't Misbehavin' and played Old Deuteronomy in the original Broadway and filmed stage adaptation of Cats. He voiced Oogie Boogie in The Nightmare Before Christmas and Kingdom Hearts franchises, and played in the original Broadway production of The Wiz as The Lion and the first Broadway revival of Guys and Dolls as Nicely-Nicely Johnson.

Key Information

Early life

[edit]

Kenneth Page was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri on January 20, 1954.[1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8] He was raised Catholic by his mother, Gloria, and his step-father, Garvin Gilstrap. He attended St. Bridget of Erin and St. Nicholas elementary schools.[4] While attending St. Nicholas, he was inspired by a teacher and an older cousin to pursue theatre. He subsequently graduated from Bishop DuBourg High School in 1972.[4] From there he attended Fontbonne College in Clayton, Missouri, on a full scholarship and majored in theatre.[9][8]

Career

[edit]
Page in 2008

Page began his career in the chorus of the Muny outdoor theater in St. Louis.[3][5][7][10] After making his Broadway debut in The Wiz, he played Nicely-Nicely Johnson in the all-black revival of Guys and Dolls (Theatre World Award).[2][3][5][7][8][11] He was then featured in the original cast of the Fats Waller musical revue, Ain't Misbehavin' (Drama Desk Award), a role he reprised in the 1982 television broadcast.[12][2][4] He also returned to the show in its 1988 Broadway revival.[12][2][3][4]

In 1982, Page played Old Deuteronomy in Cats, returning to the part in the 1998 video release.[12][2][4][13][8][10][11] He also played God twice, in Randy Newman's Faust at La Jolla Playhouse and Goodman Theatre and in Stephen Schwartz's Children of Eden (West End). He frequently acted in shows at The Muny, with appearances including Jesus Christ Superstar, Aida, The Wizard of Oz, Les Misérables, My One and Only, and Little Shop of Horrors.[12][3][4][7]

Besides The Nightmare Before Christmas, Page's major film credits included All Dogs Go to Heaven and Torch Song Trilogy, as well as Dreamgirls.[2][3][13][5][6][8][11] His TV credits included guest roles on shows such as Charmed and Touched by an Angel, as well as various films and specials.[2][3][4][13][5][6][8][10]

In later years, Page developed and performed his cabaret-singer show, Page by Page, and directed various regional and touring productions. He was the voice of the notorious talking plant Audrey II in the Muny's production of Little Shop of Horrors.[4][6] He also reprised the role of Old Deuteronomy in the Lubbock Moonlight Musicals production of Cats in Lubbock, Texas.[14]

Page regularly reprised his role as Oogie Boogie in several other Disney productions such as the fireworks display HalloWishes at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom, its sister show, Halloween Screams at Disneyland, the Haunted Mansion Holiday (also at Disneyland), the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular (at Magic Kingdom) and subsequent video games including The Nightmare Before Christmas: The Pumpkin King, The Nightmare Before Christmas: Oogie's Revenge and the Kingdom Hearts series.[1][12][2][4][13]

Personal life

[edit]

In September 2012, Page explained to the St. Louis Magazine: "I'm not closeted, never have been to my knowledge. But 'gay' means so many different things to people." He advised others: "Be careful. I understand, believe me – because I fought for your label. But don't define yourself by the label you put on yourself."[15]

Death

[edit]

Page died in his sleep on September 30, 2024, at the age of 70, at his home in St. Louis.[a]

Filmography

[edit]

Source:[17][additional citation(s) needed]

Film

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes
1988 Torch Song Trilogy Murray
1989 All Dogs Go to Heaven King Gator Voice
1993 The Nightmare Before Christmas Oogie Boogie
1994 I'll Do Anything Hair Person
1998 Cats Old Deuteronomy Direct-to-video
2003 Shortcut to Happiness Clerk
2006 Dreamgirls Max Washington

Television

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes
1984 Gimme a Break! Kenneth Wilson Episode: "Class of '84"
1987–1988 Sable Joe "Cheesecake" Tyson 6 episodes
1989 Polly Mayor Warren Television film
Teen Angel Returns Chubby
1990 Family Matters Darnell Watkins Episode: "The Big Reunion"
Capital News Episode: "Finished? Not Dunne"
Polly: Comin' Home! Mayor Warren Television film
1993–1994 Adventures in Wonderland The Walrus 7 episodes
1994 Duckman Additional Voices Episode: "American Dicks"
South Central Dr. Raymond McHenry 3 episodes
1995 Touched by an Angel Ox Episode: "There But for the Grace of God"
1998–2005 Great Performances Old Deuteronomy 2 episodes
2000 Welcome to New York Chef Andre Episode: "Tickets"
2005 All Grown Up! Narrator, Man Voice, episode: "Blind Man's Bluff"
2007 State of Mind Florian

Video games

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes
2002 Kingdom Hearts Oogie Boogie
2004 The Nightmare Before Christmas: Oogie's Revenge
2005 The Nightmare Before Christmas: The Pumpkin King
2006 Kingdom Hearts II
2007 Kingdom Hearts II: Final Mix+
2013 Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 Remix Archive footage
2014 Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 Remix
2024 Disney Speedstorm Posthumous update release

Theatre

[edit]

Broadway

[edit]

Off Broadway

[edit]

Regional

[edit]

The Muny-St. Louis

[edit]

Hollywood Bowl

[edit]

Other

[edit]

Discography

[edit]

Singles

[edit]
  • "Page by Page" (2008)[18]

Soundtrack

[edit]
Year Artist / Writer Song Role Film
1989 Charles Strouse & T.J. Kuenster "Let's Make Music Together" King Gator All Dogs Go to Heaven
1993 Danny Elfman "Oogie Boogie's Song" Oogie Boogie The Nightmare Before Christmas
1997 Charles Strouse & T.J. Kuenster "Let's Make Music Together" King Gator MGM Sing-Alongs: Being Happy
1998 Andrew Lloyd Webber & T.S. Eliot "Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats"
"Old Deuteronomy"
"The Awful Battle of the Pekes and the Pollicles"
"The Jellicle Ball"
"The Moments of Happiness"
"Skimbleshanks: The Railway Cat"
"The Ad-dressing of Cats"		 Old Deuteronomy Cats
2004 Danny Elfman "Oogie's Song"
"Casino Clash"
"A Filthy Finale"		 Oogie Boogie The Nightmare Before Christmas: Oogie's Revenge

Awards and nominations

[edit]
Year Award Category Play Result
1976 Theatre World Award Best Actor Ain't Misbehavin Won
1978 Drama Desk Award Outstanding Actor in a Musical Guys and Dolls Won

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Ken Page

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Ken Page (January 20, 1954 – September 30, 2024) was an American actor, singer, and voice artist renowned for his rich baritone voice and commanding stage presence in Broadway musicals, as well as his iconic voice work in animated films. Born in , , Page was raised by his mother, Gloria, and stepfather, Garvin Gilstrap, and developed an early passion for theater during his school years. He attended St. Bridget of Erin and St. Nicholas elementary schools before graduating from Bishop DuBourg High School in 1973, where he received training in theatrical arts. Page earned a full scholarship to Fontbonne College in , majoring in theater and honing his skills in musical performance. Page's professional career launched on Broadway in 1976 with an all-Black revival of Guys and Dolls, where he played Nicely-Nicely Johnson, marking his debut in the New York theater scene. The following year, he took on the role of the Cowardly Lion in The Wiz, a hit production that showcased his versatile talents as both actor and singer. In 1978, Page joined the original Broadway cast of Ain't Misbehavin', a revue celebrating the music of Fats Waller, earning him a Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Actor in a Musical. His most celebrated stage role came in 1982 as the wise Old Deuteronomy in the original Broadway production of Andrew Lloyd Webber's Cats, a part he reprised in later revivals, solidifying his status as a Broadway staple. Beyond the stage, Page transitioned successfully to film and television, appearing as nightclub owner Max Washington in the 2006 musical , which starred Knowles. He also featured in the 1988 film and guest-starred on the NBC sitcom Gimme a Break! in 1984. Page's voice work became particularly iconic in animation; he provided the gravelly, menacing vocals for the gambling boogeyman Oogie Boogie in Tim Burton's 1993 stop-motion classic , a role he reprised in video games and live events. Additionally, he voiced the charismatic King Gator in Don Bluth's 1989 animated feature . Throughout his over four-decade career, Page remained connected to his St. Louis roots, performing in local theater and while earning acclaim for his interpretive skills in and musical theater. He passed away at his home in at the age of 70, leaving a legacy as one of Broadway's most memorable character actors and a beloved voice in family entertainment.

Personal background

Early life

Ken Page was born on January 20, 1954, in , . He grew up in the Carr Square Village neighborhood before his family relocated to Northwoods during the era of in the city. Page was raised by his mother, Gloria, and stepfather, Garvin Gilstrap, who nicknamed him "Kenny Cool" as a for his calm demeanor and encouraged him to embrace his unique identity and talents from an early age. During his elementary school years, Page attended St. Bridget of Erin and St. Nicholas schools in , where he developed an initial interest in . He was particularly inspired by Sister Ruth Cecilia, the founder of the speech club at St. Nicholas, and an older cousin who encouraged his pursuit of theater, leading him to participate in school activities that highlighted his hidden confidence despite his shyness. Page's early exposure to music and theater came through local influences like outdoor amphitheater, where he built intricate miniature sets of its productions using shoe boxes for school projects and even sang show tunes like Barbra Streisand's "" in his building's stairwell, fostering his passion for singing and acting. In high school, Page attended Bishop DuBourg, a Catholic institution, where he immersed himself in programs and received specialized training in theatrical arts. He participated actively in school plays, notably portraying in a senior-year production of , a role that drew community attention and controversy but solidified his commitment to performance under the guidance of supportive drama teachers. Page graduated from Bishop DuBourg in 1973, having already begun writing his own musicals by the eighth grade as an outlet for his growing creative interests.

Education

Page graduated from Bishop DuBourg High School in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1973, where he benefited from special training in theatrical arts that nurtured his interest in performance. During his senior year, he gained early exposure through a summer program at The Muny, debuting in 1972 as an ensemble member in South Pacific, which helped forge initial professional connections in St. Louis theater circles. Following his high school graduation, Page received a full scholarship to in , in 1973, where he majored in theater and focused on developing his acting and vocal talents. A pivotal experience came when he landed his first paid acting role as Stewpot in a production of South Pacific, staged at the institution and featuring notable performers like and . Under the mentorship of theater department chair Don Garner, who early on identified Page's exceptional presence and guided his growth in musical theater, he refined key skills essential for his future stage work. Page completed his degree at Fontbonne College prior to relocating to New York City in pursuit of Broadway opportunities.

Professional career

Theatre

Ken Page began his professional theatre career in 1972, joining the ensemble of the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical South Pacific at The Muny, the renowned outdoor amphitheatre in his hometown of St. Louis. This debut marked the start of a trajectory that saw him rise from supporting roles to starring positions in some of Broadway's most celebrated productions. After honing his craft in regional theatre, Page made his Broadway debut in 1976 as Nicely-Nicely Johnson in the all-Black revival of Guys and Dolls. In 1977, he replaced Ted Ross as the Cowardly Lion in The Wiz, bringing his charismatic stage presence to the character during the show's groundbreaking success as the first all-Black Broadway musical to win seven Tony Awards. Page's true Broadway breakthrough arrived in 1978 with the revue Ain't Misbehavin', a tribute to in which he served as one of the core performers alongside and . His vibrant portrayal of Waller's spirit through song and movement earned him the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Actor in a Musical, while the production itself captured the , highlighting Page's emergence as a versatile talent capable of blending , , and heartfelt interpretation. This role solidified his reputation for infusing characters with warmth and humor, paving the way for more prominent opportunities. In 1982, Page originated the role of , the wise patriarch of the Jellicle tribe, in the Broadway premiere of Andrew Lloyd Webber's Cats, a production that would become the longest-running show in Broadway history at the time with over 7,000 performances. He performed the role through 1987, delivering the character's authoritative baritone solos and commanding physicality amid the show's elaborate choreography and feline ensemble, contributing to its cultural phenomenon status. Later, in the 1992 revival of , Page portrayed Nicely-Nicely Johnson, the affable gambler known for his craps-game enthusiasm, in the all-Black cast led by . Beyond Broadway, Page maintained an active presence in and regional , particularly through shows like Page by Page, where he showcased his interpretive singing of standards from his career-spanning repertoire. He frequently returned to for engagements at , including lead roles in later years, balancing high-profile New York commitments with a deep connection to his roots. This evolution from ensemble member to leading man reflected Page's adaptability across genres, from revues to epic musicals, while his resonant vocal talents extended naturally into voice work.

Film and television

Ken Page made his film debut in the 1988 drama , directed by , where he portrayed the character Murray, a friend of the Arnold Beckoff in this of Harvey Fierstein's play about gay life and relationships. This role marked Page's entry into on-screen acting, leveraging his theatrical background to deliver a grounded performance amid the film's exploration of identity and family. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Page appeared in guest spots on various television series, often bringing his stage-honed charisma to supporting characters. In 1984, he guest-starred on Gimme a Break! in the episode "Class of '84," playing Kenneth Wilson, a role that reunited him with his Ain't Misbehavin' co-star Nell Carter. He followed this with a recurring role as Joe "Cheesecake" Tyson on the short-lived ABC series Sable from 1987 to 1988, appearing in six episodes as a colorful informant in the show's vigilante narrative. Other notable TV appearances included Darnell Watkins on Family Matters in the 1990 episode "The Big Reunion," where he contributed to a family-themed storyline, and Dr. Raymond McHenry on South Central in four episodes during 1994, portraying a compassionate doctor in the sitcom's ensemble. These roles highlighted Page's versatility in comedic and dramatic television formats, though opportunities remained sporadic compared to his stage successes. Page continued with smaller film roles in the and 2000s, including a brief appearance as the Hair Person in ' 1994 comedy I'll Do Anything, a satirical take on Hollywood casting that featured as an aspiring actor. In 2003, he played the Clerk in the fantasy drama , a modern retelling of starring . His most prominent later film role came in the 2006 musical Dreamgirls, directed by , where he appeared as Max Washington, a manager figure in the story of a 1960s inspired by ; this performance allowed Page to showcase his vocal talents alongside stars like Knowles and . Additionally, Page featured in the 1989 television movie Polly, a musical of , as Mayor Warren, contributing to its family-oriented ensemble. Transitioning from the immediacy of live theater to the more controlled environment of film and television presented hurdles for Page, including limited leading roles often influenced by his distinctive and resonant voice, which sometimes led to in character parts rather than protagonists. Despite these constraints, his screen work complemented his stage by expanding his reach to broader audiences through memorable supporting appearances.

Voice work

Ken Page's voice acting career highlighted his distinctive baritone, honed through years of stage performances, which he adapted seamlessly to animated characters by infusing them with improvisational energy and musical flair. Page achieved a breakthrough in voice work with his portrayal of the villainous Oogie Boogie in the 1993 stop-motion animated film The Nightmare Before Christmas, directed by Henry Selick. Initially hired solely to sing "Oogie's Song," a number in boogie-woogie style inspired by Cab Calloway and Fats Waller, Page was later asked to provide the character's dialogue after pitching an improvised interpretation blending the bombastic tone of Bert Lahr's Cowardly Lion with the demonic rasp of Mercedes McCambridge from The Exorcist. The recording process occurred separately from the animation, with Page delivering lines in isolation and viewing the completed visuals only afterward, allowing his stage-trained vocals to emphasize the character's gambling, bug-filled menace through rhythmic scatting and exaggerated menace. He reprised the role of Oogie Boogie across Disney's video game series from 2002 to 2019, including (2002), Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories (2004), and (2005), where the character's boogie-woogie persona integrated into interactive fantasy battles. Page also voiced Oogie in other tie-ins, such as the 2004 game The Nightmare Before Christmas: Oogie's Revenge, maintaining the improvisational vocal style that defined the original. Beyond Oogie Boogie, Page lent his voice to other animated projects, notably as the jazzy, trumpet-playing King Gator in the 1989 film , where his brought a lively, improvisational charm to the swamp-dwelling alligator. His technical adaptability from theatre—evident in roles like in Cats—enabled him to layer emotional depth and musical improvisation into these disembodied performances, often enhancing character songs with spontaneous phrasing. In addition to animation, Page pursued cabaret and solo voice work, delivering intimate concerts that showcased his interpretive singing of Broadway standards and jazz tunes. His one-man show Page by Page, recorded live and released on LML Music, featured personal anecdotes intertwined with vocal performances, while later appearances, such as at the Coachella Valley Repertory in 2024, highlighted his enduring stage presence in smaller venues.

Legacy

Awards and nominations

Ken Page received several prestigious awards and nominations throughout his career, particularly for his Broadway performances and regional work in . His contributions to were recognized for their innovation and impact, highlighting his versatile and commanding stage presence. In 1977, Page earned the Theatre World Award for his debut Broadway role as Nicely-Nicely Johnson in the all-Black revival of , acknowledging outstanding debuts in New York . The following year, he won the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Actor in a Musical for portraying in the Ain't Misbehavin', a role that showcased his interpretive skills in Waller's music and earned widespread acclaim for the production's ensemble energy. Returning to his roots, Page garnered regional recognition for his work at . In 2006, he received the Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Musical for his portrayal of King Herod in , praised for its theatrical flair and vocal power. In 2019, he was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award by the St. Louis Arts and Education Council, celebrating his enduring influence on local and national theatre, including mentorship of emerging artists.
YearAwardCategoryWorkResult
1977Theatre World AwardOutstanding Debut PerformanceGuys and DollsWon
1978Drama Desk AwardOutstanding Actor in a MusicalAin't Misbehavin'Won
2006Kevin Kline AwardOutstanding Supporting Actor in a MusicalJesus Christ Superstar (The Muny)Won
2019St. Louis Arts and Education CouncilLifetime Achievement in the ArtsCareerWon

Death and tributes

Ken Page died on September 30, 2024, at the age of 70, at his home in , . His passing was confirmed by his , Todd M. Eskin, who noted that Page had died peacefully in his sleep, with no cause of death publicly disclosed. Following his death, tributes poured in from the theatre world and his community, highlighting his warmth and contributions. described him as a "beloved , stage star, and voice actor," and announced a public memorial celebration held on April 11, 2025, at The Sheldon Concert Hall in , which was livestreamed for global audiences. , where Page performed in over 45 productions across five decades, issued a heartfelt statement calling him their "beloved colleague, friend and 'voice,'" and expressed profound heartbreak over the loss of the theatre legend. Broadway figures, including those from productions like Cats and , remembered him through personal reflections; for instance, American Theatre published a poetic praising his joyful presence as a "seeker-clown" in the . Public Radio (STLPR) included him in a year-end tribute to local figures who passed in 2024, noting his enduring ties to the city despite his national fame. Posthumous recognitions in 2024 and 2025 underscored Page's impact on theatre. honored him by renaming the St. Louis High School Awards as the Ken Page Awards, dedicating a new stage in his name, and inducting him into their Hall of Fame during the April 2025 memorial event, which featured music and memories from colleagues. While no specific dedications were announced for events, his voice work as Oogie Boogie continued to resonate in fan and industry remembrances tied to projects. Page's death marked the culmination of a career that began in St. Louis and elevated African-American voices in and , ensuring their prominence through iconic roles in Broadway shows and animated films. His legacy endures as a bridge between regional traditions and global , inspiring future generations in these fields.

Filmography

Films

Ken Page's live-action film roles showcased his commanding screen presence, often in supporting capacities that echoed his Broadway charisma. In 1988, he portrayed Murray, a witty and supportive friend to the lead character Arnold Beckoff, in , directed by . In 1989, he played Mamba in the TV movie , directed by . Page appeared as the Hair Person, a quirky Hollywood stylist, in the 1994 satirical comedy I'll Do Anything, directed by . In 1998, he reprised his Broadway role as in the film adaptation of Cats, directed by David Mallet. He played the role of Clerk in the 2003 fantasy comedy , directed by , where he contributed to the ensemble in this adaptation of . In 2006, Page depicted Max Washington, the determined manager of the girl group The Dreams, in the musical drama , directed by .

Television

Ken Page made his mark on television through a series of guest appearances and recurring roles across sitcoms, dramas, and children's programming, often leveraging his commanding presence and vocal talents in supporting characters. His TV work spanned from the mid-1980s to the mid-2000s, showcasing his versatility in both live-action and voice roles within episodic formats. Page's early television credit came in 1984 on the sitcom , where he portrayed Kenneth Wilson in the episode "Class of '84," a high school reunion storyline highlighting nostalgic humor. He followed this with a recurring role on the ABC adventure series (1987–1988), playing the affable informant Joe "Cheesecake" Tyson across six episodes, contributing to the show's blend of mystery and action. In 1990, Page guest-starred as Darnell Watkins, an old friend of the Winslow family, in the episode "The Big Reunion," bringing warmth to a plot involving reconnection and family dynamics. Throughout the 1990s, Page continued with notable guest spots. In 1995, he played Ox on in the episode "There But for the Grace of God," delivering a performance centered on and grace. That same decade, he voiced the whimsical in seven episodes of Disney Channel's Adventures in Wonderland (1993–1994), enhancing the live-action/animated hybrid with his musical flair. Page had a recurring role as Dr. Raymond McHenry in three episodes of the 1994 Fox sitcom South Central, addressing themes of community and family. Later appearances included Chef Andre in the 2000 CBS comedy Welcome to New York's episode "Tickets," where his character added culinary chaos to the ensemble. Page provided the voice for the Narrator in the 2005 All Grown Up! episode "Blind Man's Bluff," offering insightful narration to a story of and . His final major TV role was as the authoritative Tribunal member Adair in the 2004 Charmed episode "Crimes and Witch-Demeanors," portraying a judge in a trial arc exploring justice in the magical world.

Video games

Ken Page is best known for voicing the villainous Oogie Boogie in video games tied to , building on his original performance in the 1993 Disney film. His notable video game credits include:
YearTitlePlatform(s)Role
2002Oogie Boogie (voice)
2004Oogie Boogie (voice)
2004, Oogie Boogie (voice)
2005Oogie Boogie (voice)
In these titles, Page's portrayal emphasized Oogie Boogie's gambling-obsessed, bug-filled persona as a boss antagonist in Halloween Town settings.

Theatre credits

Broadway

Ken Page made his Broadway debut in the all-Black revival of Guys and Dolls, directed by Billy Wilson, where he portrayed Nicely-Nicely Johnson alongside co-stars Robert Guillaume as Sky Masterson and Ernestine Jackson as Sarah Brown; the production ran from July 21, 1976, to February 13, 1977, at the Broadway Theatre. He next joined the original production of The Wiz as a replacement for the Cowardly Lion, taking over the role from May 1978 until the show's closing on January 28, 1979, at the Broadway Theatre, under director Geoffrey Holder. Page appeared in the original Broadway cast of the revue Ain't Misbehavin', conceived and directed by Richard Maltby, Jr., performing various Fats Waller songs such as "Honeysuckle Rose" and "Handful of Keys" alongside co-stars Nell Carter, André De Shields, Armelia McQueen, and Charlaine Woodard; the show opened on May 9, 1978, at the Longacre Theatre and ran for 1,604 performances until February 21, 1982, transferring to the Plymouth and Belasco Theatres. In the long-running musical Cats, directed by with choreography by , Page originated the role of from the October 7, 1982, opening at the through approximately March 1984, sharing the stage with co-stars including as and as ; the production continued until 2000 but marked a pivotal period for Page's national recognition during its early years from 1982 to 1987. Page returned to Broadway in the 1988 revival of Ain't Misbehavin' at the Ambassador Theatre, again directed by Richard Maltby, Jr., as a performer in the Fats Waller revue, which ran from August 15, 1988, to January 15, 1989. His final Broadway credit was as a replacement performer in the revue It Ain't Nothin' But the Blues, directed by Randal Myler, which opened April 26, 1999, at the Vivian Beaumont Theater and ran until January 9, 2000.

Other theatre

Page's non-Broadway theatre work spanned productions, regional stages, international tours, and concert performances, demonstrating his versatility in and cabaret-style revues. He frequently returned to regional venues, particularly in , where he launched his professional career and built a lasting legacy through dozens of roles. In theatre, Page was part of the original cast of Ain't Misbehavin' at the in 1978, contributing to its Tony Award-winning success before its Broadway transfer. He later played Maurice in the Theater premiere of at the Mitzi E. Newhouse Theater in 2009, a musical exploring interconnected lives through song. Page also appeared in multiple Encores! series at , including as Jupiter in the 1995 concert staging of Out of This World. Page's regional credits were extensive, with over 45 productions at The Muny from 1973 onward, where he earned his Actors' Equity card in the ensemble of South Pacific. He took on prominent roles such as Amonasro in Aida (2006), the voice of Audrey II in Little Shop of Horrors (2011), Old Deuteronomy in a revival of Cats, Narrator and Maurice in Breakfast at Tiffany's (2005), Doc in West Side Story (2023), the Bishop of Digne in Les Misérables (2024), and Joe in Waitress (2024). Other regional highlights included the Devil in the world premiere of Randy Newman's Faust at La Jolla Playhouse (1995), Tom in the world premiere of Tom Jones at North Shore Music Theatre, Billy in Letters from 'Nam, King Herod in Jesus Christ Superstar, and Thenardier in Les Misérables. Internationally, Page performed in the West End premiere of Children of Eden at the Prince Edward Theatre (1991). His appearances at the Hollywood Bowl included Sebastian in the live-to-film concert of The Little Mermaid (2019) and Oogie Boogie in The Nightmare Before Christmas 30th Anniversary Concert (2023).
YearShowRoleVenue
1973South PacificEnsembleThe Muny, St. Louis, MO
1978Ain't Misbehavin'PerformerManhattan Theatre Club, New York, NY (Off-Broadway)
1991Children of EdenPerformerPrince Edward Theatre, London, UK
1995Randy Newman's Faust (World Premiere)The DevilLa Jolla Playhouse, La Jolla, CA
2005Breakfast at Tiffany'sNarrator / MauriceThe Muny, St. Louis, MO
2006AidaAmonasroThe Muny, St. Louis, MO
2009HappinessMauriceMitzi E. Newhouse Theater, New York, NY (Off-Broadway)
2019The Little MermaidSebastianHollywood Bowl, Los Angeles, CA
2023West Side StoryDocThe Muny, St. Louis, MO
2023The Nightmare Before Christmas (Concert)Oogie BoogieHollywood Bowl, Los Angeles, CA
2024Les MisérablesBishop of DigneThe Muny, St. Louis, MO
2024WaitressJoeThe Muny, St. Louis, MO

Discography

Solo work

Ken Page released his debut solo album, Page by Page, in 2008 on LML Music. The record, a live performance capturing his one-man show of the same name, showcased Page's versatile in a jazz-inflected program blending standards, Broadway tunes, and personal reflections drawn from his theater background. Produced by LML Records, the album featured direction by Dan Mojica and musical direction by Daryl Archibald across a 32-track 2-disc set. Key selections included covers like "" and "On Broadway," alongside originals such as the title track "Page by Page," which served as a narrative anchor for the performance. The production highlighted Page's prowess, with intimate accompaniment and occasional ensemble support, reflecting his transition from roles to solo artistry. The full track listing is as follows:
  1. Overture
  3. Page by Page
  4. C.C. Rider
  5. Sidewalk Tree
  6. Just Being Us
  7. Hello Pearl
  8. New Possibilities
  9. Bloody Mary
  10. Summertime Love
  11. Who Am I Anyway?
  12. On Broadway
  13. Sit Down You're Rockin' the Boat
  16. Last Dance
  17. Honeysuckle Rose
  18. Ain't Misbehavin'

  20. [Note: Full 32-track list includes additional spoken word segments and songs; abbreviated here for brevity.]
No standalone singles were released from the album or as independent projects during Page's career.

Soundtracks

Ken Page contributed his distinctive baritone voice to several notable soundtracks across film, stage, and video games, often highlighting his vocal range in ensemble and solo performances. In the 1975 original Broadway cast album for The Wiz, Page performed as the Cowardly Lion, including the solo "Mean Ol' Lion." On the 1976 revival Broadway cast album for Guys and Dolls, Page played Nicely-Nicely Johnson, leading "Sit Down, You're Rockin' the Boat" and contributing to ensemble numbers like "Fugue for Tinhorns." On the 1978 original Broadway cast album for Ain't Misbehavin', a revue celebrating Fats Waller's music, Page performed multiple tracks, including the solo "Your Feet's Too Big" with playful scatting and the ensemble "Black and Blue," showcasing his interpretive flair for jazz standards. For the 1982 original Broadway cast recording of Cats, Page sang as Old Deuteronomy in key solos like "Old Deuteronomy," delivering a wise, resonant narration of the Jellicle leader's lore, and contributed to "The Ad-Dressing of Cats" and "The Moments of Happiness" with the company, emphasizing themes of dignity and reflection. In the 1989 animated film All Dogs Go to Heaven, Page voiced King Gator and performed the duet "Let's Make Music Together" with Burt Reynolds. In the 1993 animated film , Page led the villainous "Oogie Boogie's Song" alongside Ed Ivory, embodying the gambling antagonist with a menacing swagger. Page appeared in the 2006 film as Max Washington, a theater doorman, with his role involving proximity to the musical performances, though he had no specific vocal credits on the soundtrack. In the video game series, Page reprised his role as Oogie Boogie, providing voice work for dialogue and musical segments like "Oogie Boogie's Song" in (2002) and (2005), integrating his performance into the games' orchestral soundtracks composed by .

References

  1. https://www.thehistorymakers.org/biography/ken-page-41
  2. https://variety.com/2024/film/news/ken-page-dead-oogie-boogie-1236166518/
  3. https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/ken-page-dead-oogie-boogie-nightmare-before-christmas-1236018951/
  4. https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/01/arts/ken-page-dead.html
  5. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0443489/characters/nm0656238
  6. https://www.stlpr.org/arts/2024-10-01/actor-ken-page-made-it-big-on-broadway-but-never-really-left-st-louis
  7. https://www.stlmag.com/Kenny-Cool-Broadway-Actor-Ken-Page-Talks-About-Joy-Celebrity-and-Coming-Home-Again/
  8. https://muny.org/farewell-to-ken-page-the-legendary-voice-of-the-muny/
  9. https://playbill.com/article/beloved-baritone-ken-page-dies-at-70
  10. https://www.broadwayworld.com/shows/The-Wiz-7892/replacement-cast
  11. https://playbill.com/article/original-cats-star-ken-page-revisits-broadway-career-and-more-at-feinsteins-54-below-may-4
  12. https://www.theatermania.com/news/ken-page-original-old-deuteronomy-in-cats-dies-at-70_1751720/
  13. https://cabaretscenes.org/archive.cabaretscenes.org/cabaret_reviews/2014/feb14/page_ken_2-14.html
  14. https://www.themoviedb.org/person/95758-ken-page?language=en-US
  15. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0110097/fullcredits
  16. https://directconversations.com/2014/10/31/ken-page-nightmare-christmas/
  17. https://wdwnt.com/2024/10/ken-page-voice-of-oogie-boogie-passes-away/
  18. https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Ken-Page/
  19. https://www.discovercathedralcity.com/event/coachella-valley-repertory-2024-summer-cabaret-series-13/
  20. https://stageandcinema.com/2024/07/05/cabaret-review-ken-page-cv-rep/
  21. https://www.playbill.com/person/ken-page-vault-0000048030
  22. https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-production/aint-misbehavin-4058
  23. https://www.theatermania.com/news/kevin-kline-award-winners-announced_7887/
  24. https://www.stlpr.org/show/st-louis-on-the-air/2019-01-21/st-louis-performer-ken-page-to-be-honored-for-lifetime-achievement
  25. https://playbill.com/article/ken-page-memorial-to-stream-live-from-st-louis
  26. https://www.americantheatre.org/2024/10/09/a-eulogical-elegy-with-rhyming-ululations-in-remembrance-of-ken-page/
  27. https://www.stlpr.org/show/st-louis-on-the-air/2024-12-23/a-tribute-to-st-louisans-who-passed-away-in-2024
  28. https://muny.org/muny-tributes-to-ken-page-include-naming-of-theatre-awards-and-new-stage-hall-of-fame-induction/
  29. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0110097/fullcredits/
  30. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0263265/fullcredits/
  31. https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/dreamgirls
  32. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0588242/
  33. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0247142/
  34. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0475344/
  35. https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/video-games/Kingdom-Hearts-II/Oogie-Boogie/
  36. https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-production/guys-and-dolls-3850
  37. https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-production/the-wiz-3716
  38. https://playbill.com/person/ken-page-vault-0000048030
  39. https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-production/cats-4186
  40. https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-production/aint-misbehavin-12583
  41. https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-production/it-aint-nothin-but-the-blues-8379
  42. https://muny.org/halloffame/
  43. https://www.broadwayworld.com/shows/Happiness-329568/cast
  44. https://www.broadwayworld.com/people/Ken-Page/
  45. https://www.abouttheartists.com/artists/287622-ken-page
  46. https://muny.org/muny-announces-principal-cast-for-les-miserables/
  47. https://muny.org/the-muny-announces-principal-cast-for-premiere-production-of-waitress/
  48. https://lmlmusic.com/artists/kenpage/
  49. https://www.hollywoodbowl.com/musicdb/artists/4058/ken-page
  50. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8FQuq8WHQ-w
  51. https://www.allmusic.com/album/page-by-page-mw0000781692
  52. https://lmlmusic.com/album/pagebypage/
  53. https://playbill.com/article/ken-pages-debut-solo-recording-page-by-page-due-in-stores-feb-12-com-147574
  54. https://open.spotify.com/album/009VWQN5W8Z8ekjqsvkyhM
  55. https://music.apple.com/us/album/page-by-page/1144275822
  56. https://www.allmusic.com/artist/ken-page-mn0000078614/discography
  57. https://www.playbill.com/article/beloved-baritone-ken-page-dies-at-70
  58. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2yFMMbXU07k
  59. https://open.spotify.com/album/5s7mFSSi2z0J1IxiQVwmRl
  60. https://castalbums.org/recordings/Aint-Misbehavin-1978-Original-Broadway-Cast/2729/
  61. https://genius.com/albums/Original-broadway-cast-of-cats/Cats-complete-original-broadway-cast-recording-1982-original-broadway-cast
  62. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0096787/soundtrack/
  63. https://www.discogs.com/release/12114316-Danny-Elfman-Tim-Burtons-The-Nightmare-Before-Christmas-Original-Motion-Picture-Soundtrack
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