Ralph Perkins

Ralph Perkins serves as Director of Theatre Dance at The Hartt School, University of Hartford, and holds an Adjunct Professor appointment in the dance division where he teaches Martha Graham Technique. With a career spanning regional theater, Las Vegas productions, and international engagements, he maintains an active presence in both academic and professional performance spheres.

Education

• BFA in Dance from Southern Methodist University

Artistic Expertise: Mr. Perkins' choreographic signature fuses ballet, contemporary, jazz, tap, ethnic, and period movement with theatrical innovation. His extensive portfolio includes landmark productions for Goodspeed Musicals, The Asolo Repertory Theater, Papermill Playhouse, The Muny in St. Louis, and The Repertory Theater of St. Louis. In Las Vegas, he shaped major residencies including EFX starring Tommy Tune and Siegfried & Roy's Mirage productions, demonstrating exceptional versatility across commercial and artistic contexts.

Artistic Recognition: His accolades include the Toddy Award for best production number ("The Wall"), Louie Award for best musical ("Sunday in the Park with George"), and Nevada State Council on the Arts fellowship. He received multiple nominations including CT Critics Circle, St. Louis Critics Circle, and Kevin Kline Awards for choreography excellence.

Artistic Leadership: Beyond Hartt, Mr. Perkins founded The New Works Project Ltd. (1995-2000), creating over forty contemporary dance works. He served as artistic director for Golden Rainbow AIDS Benefit and co-founded the Las Vegas Performing Arts Academy dance program, extending his influence through guest artist residencies at UNLV, University of Reno, and Houston School of Performing and Visual Arts.