Steve Barton, the man who originated the role of Munkustrap - at least the way we know him today - in Vienna in 1983, passed away on the 21 of July in 2001, at the way too young age of 47. He was born on the 26th June in 1954 in Hot Springs, Arkansas and performed on and off-Broadway, in the West End and various parts of Europe (mostly German speaking) and the USA. He originated the role of Raoul de Chagny in The Phantom of the Opera, where was the alternate for the role, which he got to play later. He also originated the role of the Graf von Krolock (the Count of Krolock) in the Austrian musical Tanz der Vampire (Dance of the Vampires). The beautiful dancer and magnificent baritone sadly suffered from physical and mental health problems and his early death is surrounded by myths. He might have had a heart attack, he might have commited suicide (which is often said, but not a fact), he might have died  from his medication.

Everyone who worked with him had only the kindest of words to say. He was loved by his family and friends, his collegues and fans. May he rest in peace.

"Such a talent"

- Gillian Lynne

 
"The combination of his powerful voice, great charm and stage presence was one of the hits of the show. He will be hugely missed not only by his family and friends and all those to whom he gave such pleasure from his performances but also by the larger family of those of us involved in musical theatre with whom he worked so happily for many years"

- Andrew Lloyd Webber

 

Steve was cast as Munkustrap in the CATS production in Vienna, the first on continental Europe. Gillian Lynne, who was fascinated by his wonderful talent, not only gave him the part of the dance captain, but also enlarged his character's part in the play, so the audience would not only get to see his wonderful dancing, but also to hear his beautiful voice. The part of Munkustrap has been kept that way ever since, in every production to come. His parts were formerly performed by Mr. Mistoffelees.

 

Steve, who won a scholarship to the University of Texas at Austin, where he studied dance, theater and voice, was a true triple threat and his outstanding performance is what created one of the most beloved Jellicle Cats.


Full name: Steven Neal Barton
Born: 26.06.1954 in Hot Springs, Arkansas, USA (Zodiac Sign Cancer)
Died: 21.06.2001 in Bremen, Germany
Parents: Tom and Mary Barton
Siblings: Tom Barton and Betty Gambrell
Wife: Denny Berry
Son: Edward Barton
Voice: Baritone
Profession: Dancer, Actor, Singer, Director, Teacher
Eye color: Blue
Hair color: Blond
Height: 6'


 

 

Steve Barton Gedenkseite (German and English)
Steve Barton - In Memory...
A Life Dedicated To The Stage

 

Join the Steve Barton fanllisting



Some graphics made by me.