Ken Page

Dance with Cats, Sing with Oogie Boogie: A Broadway Legend Remembered!

The beloved voice of Oogie Boogie and Broadway star Ken Page has left us at 70, but his legacy kicks and spins on!

We mourn the loss of Ken Page, a Broadway star and cultural icon who passed away on Monday at the age of 70. With roots in Missouri, Page enchanted audiences with his powerful performances both on stage and in film. He is perhaps best known for voicing the whimsical villain Oogie Boogie in Tim Burton’s holiday classic, The Nightmare Before Christmas. His portrayal of Oogie not only brought the character to life but has woven him into the fabric of Halloween and Christmas traditions for fans around the globe.

Page’s Broadway accolades are numerous, including standout roles in iconic productions like Cats, where he played the original Old Deuteronomy, and Ain't Misbehavin’, which showcased his amazing vocal prowess. His work in Dreamgirls also added to his impressive repertoire, making him a household name among theatre aficionados. It's hard not to imagine audiences swaying to his captivating tunes, all while he firmly established his mark on Broadway history.

Ken Page’s passing has resulted in heartfelt tributes from fans and fellow performers alike, celebrating not just his talent, but also his infectious joy and enthusiasm for the arts. "He had the voice of an angel and the spirit of an innovator," recalled one theatre veteran, summing up the feelings of those who had the pleasure of either working with him or watching him perform. Each tribute embodies the love and appreciation felt for this incredible individual who donned many hats—an actor, a performer, and a beloved friend.

As we reflect on his remarkable journey, we can't help but smile at the memorable roles he played. Did you know that Page’s Oogie Boogie was initially conceived to be a more sinister character? But it's Page’s unique vocal flair that transformed him into a fun, albeit creepy, character, loved by children and adults alike. Moreover, Ken Page had a flair for attracting a positive, welcoming spirit wherever he went—this was evident in his roles, and it will surely be missed.

Before we leave this tribute, let’s remember that he also performed in various television shows and movies, bringing with him that gorgeous baritone voice that made him unforgettable. From shaking a tail in cats to playing the spookiest of spirits, Ken Page truly was a force of nature in the world of performance, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of performers to come!