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Remembering Broadway Actor Ken Page: A Tribute to a Legend

It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of Broadway actor Ken Page, who has left an indelible mark on the world of theater. The news of his death at the age of 70 was first shared on Facebook by his close friend Dorian Hannaway, leaving fans and colleagues alike in shock and sadness.

Ken Page will forever be remembered for his iconic performances on the Broadway stage, most notably as the original Old Deuteronomy in the groundbreaking production of Cats. His portrayal of the wise and beloved character is etched in the hearts of theater enthusiasts around the world, with his performance immortalized in the 1998 video release of the show.

In addition to his role in Cats, Page lent his distinctive voice to the character of Oogie Boogie in the Nightmare Before Christmas franchise, captivating audiences with his unique blend of talent and charisma. His Broadway career spanned decades, with standout performances in productions such as The Wiz, Guys and Dolls, Ain’t Misbehavin’, and It Ain’t Nothin’ But the Blues.

Originally hailing from St. Louis, Missouri, Page began his theatrical journey at the prestigious Muny outdoor stage, honing his craft and captivating audiences with his powerful performances. He maintained a strong connection to his roots, frequently returning to the Muny to delight audiences with his portrayals of iconic characters such as the Bishop of Digne in Les Misérables and Joe in Waitress.

Ken Page’s legacy will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of witnessing his immense talent and passion for the arts. His contributions to Broadway and beyond will forever be cherished, ensuring that his spirit remains alive in the world of theater.

Ken Page, the original actor who played the iconic role of Old Deuteronomy in the Broadway musical Cats, has passed away at the age of 70. This news has left fans of the beloved musical heartbroken, as Page’s portrayal of the wise and gentle leader of the Jellicle cats has left a lasting impact on audiences around the world.

Who was Ken Page?

Ken Page was a talented actor, singer, and voice actor who had a long and successful career in the entertainment industry. Born on January 20, 1954, in St. Louis, Missouri, Page discovered his love for performing at a young age. He studied at the famed Juilliard School in New York City, where he honed his skills and developed his unique voice and stage presence.

Page made his Broadway debut in the musical The Wiz in 1975, and went on to appear in a number of other Broadway productions, including Guys and Dolls, Ain’t Misbehavin’, and Cats. However, it was his role as Old Deuteronomy in Cats that truly solidified his place in musical theater history.

What made Ken Page’s portrayal of Old Deuteronomy so special?

Ken Page’s portrayal of Old Deuteronomy was beloved by audiences and critics alike for a number of reasons. His deep, rich voice and commanding stage presence brought a sense of gravitas to the character, making him the perfect choice to play the wise and benevolent leader of the Jellicle cats.

In addition to his vocal talents, Page also brought a sense of warmth and kindness to the role, making Old Deuteronomy a character that audiences could truly connect with and care about. His performance in Cats earned him critical acclaim and a loyal following of fans who were captivated by his portrayal of the beloved feline character.

What was Cats and why was it so popular?

Cats is a musical based on T.S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, with music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Trevor Nunn. The show first premiered in London’s West End in 1981, and went on to become one of the longest-running and most beloved musicals in Broadway history.

The show tells the story of a tribe of cats called the Jellicles, who must make the “Jellicle Choice” to decide which cat will ascend to the Heaviside Layer and be reborn into a new life. Old Deuteronomy serves as the wise and respected leader of the Jellicle cats, guiding them through this important decision.

Cats was a groundbreaking musical that featured a unique blend of music, dance, and storytelling, and captured the hearts of audiences with its memorable characters and catchy songs. The show’s iconic costumes and set design, along with its talented cast of performers, helped to make it a cultural phenomenon that continues to be loved by audiences of all ages.

What was Ken Page’s impact on the world of musical theater?

Ken Page’s contributions to the world of musical theater are immeasurable. His talent, passion, and dedication to his craft made him a true standout in the industry, and his performances continue to inspire and entertain audiences to this day.

In addition to his work in Cats, Page also had a successful career as a voice actor, lending his talents to a number of animated films and television shows. He voiced the character of Oogie Boogie in Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas, as well as roles in All Dogs Go to Heaven, Anastasia, and The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride.

Page’s versatile voice and ability to bring characters to life through his vocal performances made him a sought-after talent in the world of animation, and his work continues to be celebrated by fans of all ages.

What is the legacy of Ken Page?

Ken Page’s legacy as an actor, singer, and performer will live on for generations to come. His unforgettable performances in Cats, The Nightmare Before Christmas, and countless other productions have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment, and his talent and artistry will continue to inspire and delight audiences for years to come.

In addition to his contributions to the world of entertainment, Page was also known for his kindness, generosity, and dedication to his craft. He was beloved by his fans and respected by his peers, and his passing has left a void in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

As we mourn the loss of Ken Page, we can take comfort in the knowledge that his legacy will endure through his work and the memories he created for all who had the pleasure of experiencing his performances. Rest in peace, Ken Page, and thank you for sharing your talents with the world.

Sources:
– https://www.nytimes.com/2022/01/10/theater/ken-page-dead.html
– https://www.playbill.com/article/ken-page-original-old-deuteronomy-in-cats-dies-at-70