Kathryn Keats

Biography

Kathryn Keats is a Drama Critics' Circle Award winning artist and an award winning playwright, lyricist and co- composer. Her current play, The Hummingbird - an award winning solo beat musical - book, music and lyrics by Keats and music by Kevin Gerzevitz. The Hummingbird was in residency at Berkeley Repertory’s the Ground Floor and commissioned by the Marsh theatre in San Francisco and premiered in 2021 as part of Marsh Festival of New Musical Voices.
Keats, born Ellen Christian Munger, lived in anonymity for twenty years after her former collaborator lost his long battle with schizophrenia and held her for fifty – four days, convinced she was at the center of a conspiracy to destroy him. This experience culminated in a precedent-setting jury trial in Oakland, California. With the help of the Victim Witness Assistance Program Keats changed her identity and began a new life. In 2005 she learned her collaborator had died and reclaimed her career.
The Hummingbird - “If her acting is fearless about the ugliest parts of the human mind, Keats also forges a musical equivalent. Songs gasp and retch. That mode fits “The Hummingbird,” but you might frequently wonder if you’re looking at and listening to something you’re not supposed to witness...the inextinguishable fire of a true artist”
San Francisco Chronicle

“I was on the edge of my seat for Kathryn Keats. Her deep, shocking and winning true story, brilliant performance and original music are unforgettable. Experience heart rending artistry while there are tickets left in San Francisco.”
Marga Gomez
Marga Gomez is a comedian, writer, performer, and teaching artist from Harlem, New York.
“Kathryn Keats' haunting songs and heartfelt vocals reflect her unique experiences and her considerable talent”, Pete Sears.
. "Kat is bringing the message of hope, light, love and faith to people's lives. I am proud of her and her mission."
Tenacity, infectious exuberance, and charisma define Kathryn Keats today. Narada Michael Walden
Kathryn has played sold out concerts at Yoshi’s Jazz Club, Oakland, Ca, Knitting Factory, LA, Fenix Jazz Club, Ca, Bitter End, NY, Great American Music Hall, SF, 142 Throckmorton Theatre, Ca, to name a few.
Photo by Dianne Woods