Hey there, I’m Rafa Pérez. I’m an actor working and living in NYC.
My given name is Rafael Pérez Jr. but my friends and colleagues call me Rafa. I was born and raised in El Paso, Texas. Mom always knew I was meant to do something artistic. As a kid and budding teen I'd play "Power Rangers" with my nephews and would direct how our stories would unfold. "Mijo va ser un director," she'd say. My son is going to be a director.
And boy was she right. I’ve recently left UTEP where I was Assistant Professor of Instruction and the Director of Audience Development for The Department of Theatre & Dance from 2018-2022. I enjoyed my time teaching Acting Fundamentals, Voice and Speech and having the opportunity to mentor and direct students and their work. In Spring 2022, I had a blast directing a show that has become so near and dear to me, Sandy Rustin’s Clue: On Stage. It was our first big budget show in our department since people returned to being in public spaces. The design team and cast were elated to be working on a project that got us and our audiences through some hard times. If you’re reading this, thank you to all who worked on the production and came out to support local theatre!
Back in 2011 I made my first move to New York City when I was accepted into the Actors Studio Drama School at Pace University. Receiving my MFA was such a dream come true. I am grateful and humbled to have studied with Jaqcueline Knapp, Elizabeth Kemp, Louis Colaianni, and Edward Baker amongst other amazing humans.
It’s never too late to be what you might have been.
-george elliot
Some of my favorite roles of all time include Valentin in Manuel Puig’s Kiss of the Spider Woman, James in Time Stands Still, The Writer in Vieux Carré and Valdez in Jesus Hopped The 'A' Train.
In 2022 I made my second move to New York City, but this time I’m playing two players. With my future husband at my side we are excited to be back and pursuing our dreams together.
I am currently seeking representation.