Ralph Perkins

Background

About Ralph Perkins

I am currently an associate professor and Director of Dance for Theater at The Hartt School, University of Hartford in Connecticut. My position entails teaching, choreographing and directing productions as well as managing, scheduling and hiring of adjunct dance faculty, guest choreographers, and master class teachers. I also assess and keep track of the progress of approximately 120 students. I have maintained a professional career in dance for 38 years as a performer, choreographer, director and teacher. I hold a B.F.A. in Dance from Southern Methodist University. I have also been an active member of the Society of Directors and Choreographers since 2004. Along with choreographing and directing professional and collegiate productions, I teach four disciplines of dance: ballet, jazz, tap and the Martha Graham technique of contemporary dance. Performing, choreographing, teaching and directing have given me a diverse career. I am lucky to have been exposed to a large spectrum of different disciplines and genres of dance and entertainment. I have also been accepting and open to working in these different areas, never limiting myself. In either working with singers, actors, musicians, dancers, magicians or acrobats, I emphasize and utilize the similarities of the different disciplines to help them find connection between the elements. All dance and movement are linked whether it be a form of dance, or sport. It is made from the body. As we know there is a limitless capability of the mind. I think the same goes for the body and its capabilities.