Broadway Star and Voice of Oogie Boogie in “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” Ken Page, Passes Away
Sad news hit the entertainment world as Broadway star Ken Page, known for his iconic voice role as Oogie Boogie in the beloved 1993 Tim Burton film “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” has passed away.
Hailing from St. Louis, Page’s illustrious theater career spanned decades, making a mark on Broadway with unforgettable performances like Nicely-Nicely Johnson in the all-Black revival of “Guys and Dolls,” the Lion in “The Wiz,” and Old Deuteronomy in “Cats.” He also gained global recognition as Old Deuteronomy in a 1998 video recording of the Andrew Lloyd Webber show, showcasing his versatile talent on both Broadway and the West End.
Aside from his stage work, Page immortalized himself as the voice of Oogie Boogie, delighting fans with his charismatic portrayal of the lovable villain. He even brought the character to life at live-to-film concerts at The Hollywood Bowl and various theaters worldwide.
In a 2019 interview with Disney Parks, Page shared his experience voicing Oogie Boogie, noting how fans are drawn to the character’s fun and mischievous nature. He described Oogie as a villain who may not instill fear but effortlessly captivates with his enjoyably wicked persona.
Tragically, Page peacefully passed away at his St. Louis home, leaving behind a legacy of talent and charm. Loved and adored by many, his representative confirmed the news, expressing deep sorrow at the loss of this larger-than-life artist.
Throughout his career, Page also lent his voice as “the voice of The Muny” since 2015, gracing more than 45 musicals at the St. Louis outdoor summer theater. In recognition of his contributions to the arts, the St. Louis Arts and Education Council honored Page with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2019.
