Ken Page, a celebrated actor known for his impactful contributions to theater, passed away on Monday at the age of 70, leaving behind a legacy that demonstrates the potential of Midwestern talent in the New York theater scene.
Born in St. Louis in January 1954, Page had a career spanning over 40 years. After graduating from Fontbonne College, he made his way to New York City where he made his Broadway debut in the 1970s as Nicely-Nicely Johnson in a revival of “Guys and Dolls” and as a replacement for the Lion in “The Wiz.” However, he is perhaps best remembered for his portrayal of Old Deuteronomy in the original Broadway production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Cats,” which premiered in 1982.
Throughout his career, Page took on numerous powerful roles, including playing the character of God in two separate productions. He earned a Drama Desk award for his performance in “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” based on the life of jazz musician Fats Waller.
Page also found success in film, providing the voice for Oogie Boogie in Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas” and portraying Murray in Harvey Fierstein’s “Torch Song Trilogy.” This film was notable for its portrayal of a gay man’s quest for love and family. Reflecting on its significance in a 2013 interview, Page advised young LGBT people to find their pride from within.
In 2010, Page returned to St. Louis and expressed his delight in rediscovering his hometown, particularly its vibrant restaurant scene. He transitioned into a new role as the voice of the Muny, a prominent outdoor theater, and appeared in various productions, including a notable performance as Amonasro in “Aida.”
Muny Executive Producer Mike Isaacson, who became close friends with Page, spoke about the collaborative artistic vision they shared. Page was involved in over 45 shows on the Muny stage, including memorable performances in “West Side Story,” where he played the character Doc. His final moments on stage often resonated with the audience, showcasing his deep connection to the theater community.
Throughout his career, Page also ventured into directing and writing. He directed and created two plays, “Cafe Chanson” and “Sublime Intimacy,” both performed at the Kranzberg Arts Center. In 2019, he was honored with a lifetime achievement award by the St. Louis Arts and Education Council, reflecting on his successful journey in the performing arts.
As he looked back on his remarkable career, Page expressed gratitude for the opportunities he had and the experiences he shared with audiences.