Kolby Lamont Bates is a New York–based actor, singer, dancer, and songwriter originally from a small town near Reading, Pennsylvania. He graduated in 2025 from NYU’s Vocal Performance program (Musical Theater concentration), where he starred in mainstage productions of Into the Woods, Titanic, and Little Women.
Kolby also helped develop Heartbreakers in Hell by Joe Iconis and and Benjamin Halstead, directed by Hunter Bird.
Beyond NYU, he’s appeared at top New York venues including 54 Below and The Green Room 42, originated roles in new musical workshops, and assistant-directed theatrical productions. As a songwriter and producer, he brings his own voice to storytelling through music.
This season, Kolby plays Peter in Jesus Christ Superstar at REV Theatre Company.
When not onstage, he’s probably making beats, gaming, exploring restaurants, or hanging with friends, family, and dogs.