how to make a resume for acting

Acting Resume

How to make an acting resume.

An actor’s resume, along with an actor’s headshot, is your calling card. It’s there to not only inform casting directors or agents your credits but also your education, acting classes you’ve taken, physical stats and any special skills you might have.

Every resume has four sections: Personal and General Information, Credits, Training and Education and Special Skills. Below, you’ll see examples of what kind of information is needed in each section and the proper way to format it.

And before we start, you might be thinking, “Can I make an acting resume with no experience?” Absolutely! We all started somewhere, right? This acting resume is for actors, both professional and just starting out.

PERSONAL INFORMATION

Acting credits.

In this section, you’ll list all of the acting roles and acting experience you’ve had, grouping them by Theater, Film, TV, web series and student films.

TELEVISION:

Training and education.

Here, you’ll want to list any type of school, colleges classes you’ve taken. Maybe you got an award for a short film or play you were in, add that here. Basically, anything that would have helped in your acting career, let it in this section.

SPECIAL SKILLS

Here’s another example: When I was finishing up my final audition for the film, Gods and Generals, Casting Director Joy Todd and director Ron Maxwell were looking at my resume. They didn’t think I was right for the role I had come in for but they saw that I did an Irish accent and asked if I could read a few lines. I did and got the part.

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Actor Resume Example for 2024 [W/ Detailed Guide & Free Templates]

Whether it’s on the stage or in front of the camera, you feel great in the spotlight.

You’re an actor looking for your next starring role, and you know you’ve got what it takes.

There are just a few lines you can’t seem to nail.

Try as you might, your resume just doesn’t convey your talent and devotion to the craft. You spend hours pacing and wondering if you’ll ever get past it.

But there’s no need to get dramatic just yet.

This article is here to teach you how to transform your actor resume into a role-winning calling card.

We’re going to cover:

• What a Blockbuster Actor Resume Example Looks Like
• 11 Steps to Writing a Flawless Actor Resume
• What Your Actor Resume Should Include

…and so much more!

And enter, stage right.

Actor Resume Example

This is a shining example of an actor resume.

So let’s look at what it does right:

• Fits on one page. This actor resume uses every bit of space available to fit all the sections into one page.
• Uses the reverse-chronological resume format. The candidate uses the resume format that shows their most recent roles first, so the casting directors have a clear view of their career progression.
• Includes all the necessary contact details. The contact information here includes the candidate’s full name, phone number, email address, and a link to their Instagram.
• Features an eye-catching resume summary. This great resume summary captures the hiring manager’s attention by mentioning the candidate’s years of experience, top achievements, and notable skills.
• Quantifies achievements. Highlighting measurable successes like boosted ticket sales or nominations shows the true impact of this actor's previous performances.
• Keeps the education section brief. A short education section makes sure that the candidate's roles and achievements are center stage, which is exactly what casting directors are interested in.
• Adds other sections. This actor resume uses acting workshops, awards, and hobbies to give depth to their application.

11 Steps for a Stellar Actor Resume

You’ve seen what an actor’s resume is supposed to look like, so now it’s your turn to play the part.

Here’s how to fill in every section of your actor resume:

#1. Decide on the Format (and Layout)

Scene lighting directs the audience's attention to what matters most.

The format you choose for your actor resume plays the same role.

There are three primary resume formats you can pick from:

• Reverse-chronological (also called chronological)
• Functional (also known as the skill-based format)
• Combination (which merges elements of both)

For 99% of cases, the reverse-chronological format is your best choice.

This resume format puts the spotlight on your latest roles and achievements, which is what casting directors want to see first.

Plus, it's the go-to format for hiring managers worldwide.

Here’s how it looks:

Now that the lights are on, it’s time to set the stage. Enter, the resume layout .

Looks matter, and before a hiring manager reads your resume, they’re going to look at it.

Follow these tips to make sure your actor resume leaves a good first impression:

• Set the font size. Your resume’s font determines its readability. Stick to 10-12 pt for the body of your text and use 14-16 pt for headings, so the hiring manager doesn’t have to squint.
• Use bullet points. Avoid long paragraphs and organize the information on your resume into bullet points. It will make your resume more visually appealing and reader-friendly.
• Adjust the line spacing. The line spacing on your actor resume should be set to 1.0 between text and 1.15 after subheadings and section titles. Anything outside these limits can make your resume look too cluttered or too empty.
• Stick to one page. The best length for your actor resume is one page unless you have decades of relevant experience to list.
• Save it as a PDF. The best format for your actor resume is always PDF, since it stays the same across any device or OS a hiring manager might use to open it. Only use a different format, such as a Word resume , if the job ad specifically requests it.

Or Use a Resume Template

Creating the perfect actor resume from scratch takes away valuable time that you could be using to learn your next lines.

You have to set the margins, fix the line spacing, try different font styles and sizes to see what works best, and keep everything from spilling over to a second page.

What if you could skip all of that?

Give any of our free, tried-and-tested resume templates a shot and save valuable time.

Our templates are designed in close collaboration with leading HR professionals from around the world to guarantee that your resume blends professionalism with style.

Take a look at how our resume templates compare to a standard text editor resume template:

#2. Provide the Right Contact Information

The contact information is probably the easiest section to fill out on your actor resume.

All this section needs is to be factual - no matter how talented you are, you’re not getting an audition if your phone number has a typo in it.

Here’s what you need to include in this section:

• Full Name. ( E.g. Constantine Dancy )
• Title. ( E.g. Actor )
• Phone Number. If you’re applying for a role abroad, be sure to include your country’s dial code in front of your phone number.
• Email Address. Keep your email address professional and preferably related to your name. ( E.g. [email protected] , not [email protected] )
• Location. Your city and state/country are usually enough, but if you’re looking to relocate for a role, be sure to specify that somewhere in your resume.
• Social media (optional). You could include a link to a relevant social media profile, such as a dedicated Instagram or Facebook page.

When To Include Your Agent’s Contact Information

If you’re represented by an agent, that’s who casting directors should be talking to first.

Your agent is the first point of contact for anyone interested in you, so your contact information should reflect this.

Instead of adding your own phone number and email address, list your agent’s.

Here’s how this can look on your actor resume:

Contact information

Constantine Dancy

Represented by Todd Hughes

+44 7700 900907

[email protected]

Should You Include A Picture?

As a general rule, yes , your actor resume should include a clear picture of you.

You might choose to add a small headshot at the top of your resume, next to your contact information. This gives any casting director an immediate idea of what you look like, but you’ll likely be asked to submit a larger photo as an attachment.

Talent agencies advise that you attach a separate, high-quality headshot along with your resume. Contact a professional photographer and get a few great pictures you can choose from before sending in your application.

If you have to leave your application in person, make sure the photo is attached firmly to your resume so it doesn’t get lost.

#3. Write a Convincing Resume Summary (or Objective)

Stepping onto the stage, every actor dreams of captivating the audience from the start as they get lost in the character's world.

And you want your resume to invoke that “wow” factor from the start, too. This is why you should add a small paragraph at the top of your actor resume to grab casting directors’ attention from the get-go.

Think of this brief 3-4 sentence segment as a trailer for the rest of your resume. It should offer a sneak peek that makes the hiring manager want to explore the entire story of your professional journey.

You have two options to choose from:

• Resume summary. If you’re an actor who already has some significant roles to their name, the resume summary is the perfect tool to highlight your years of experience, previous roles, and any significant achievements.
• Resume objective. If you’re new to life on the set, like a recent drama school graduate, or are switching from a different field, go for a resume objective instead. It shines a light on your passion, professional aspirations, and qualifications, rather than acting credits.

Let’s look at some practical examples.

First, an experienced actor's resume summary:

Versatile stage actor with 4+ years of experience, eager to bring depth and nuance to roles at Shakespeare Theater Company. Notable performances in "Hamlet" and "Othello," receiving acclaim for embodying complex characters. Collaborative and dedicated, with a talent for both drama and comedy. Trained in Stanislavski and Meisner techniques.

Any casting director would think this resume is worth reading from the get-go. 

But even a student with no experience can make an impression. So, let’s see a less experienced actor’s resume objective:

Drama school graduate, passionate about joining the ensemble at Broadway Beginnings. Keen to bring fresh perspectives to classical roles and collaborate on innovative productions. Trained in physical theater, voice modulation, and improvisation. Grounded in theatrical history and performance theory.

#4. Describe Your Work Experience

The work experience section is the heart of an actor's resume.

It’s the section every casting director is going to read first, so you should be very careful when writing it.

Here's how to format the work experience section the right way:

• Organize it in reverse chronological order. Always begin with your most recent roles and then move back to earlier ones. Skip anything that’s too dated or irrelevant - your summer gig in a community play when you were 12 won’t hold much weight.
• State your exact role. Whether you played the lead, a supporting role, or even a background character, state it clearly. Avoid jazzing it up or downplaying it (e.g. "Lead Role" is straightforward and professional, while "Star of the Show" might come off as exaggerated and arrogant).
• Give the production details. Say what the title of the production and its location are. If the show or movie isn’t well-known, you can give a brief description for context.
• Note the performance period. Using the mm/yyyy format keeps things clean and consistent throughout your resume.
• Detail your role and accomplishments. This is where you should dive into the essence of your character, the acting methods you used, and your role in the production’s success. Use bullet points to outline significant scenes, skills you portrayed, or achievements you contributed to.

Actors’ work experience is usually called “Acting Credits” and focuses on the roles they’ve held. If your acting experience includes coaching and other production work beyond acting, then writing “work experience” is more appropriate.

That’s all there is to formatting your actor resume’s work experience.

But if you want this section to shine, you have to push beyond the basics.

Follow these tips to rise above all other actors auditioning for the same role:

• Tailor your work experience to the casting call. Carefully read the casting brief and find out exactly what they’re looking for. If the role needs a Shakespearean-trained actor with experience in improv comedy, your actor resume should center on your performances and training that highlight those skills the most.
• Focus on achievements over small-time gigs. The casting director knows the standard responsibilities of a background actor or theater performer, and they won’t be impressed by them. So instead, highlight all roles or projects where you brought something unique to the table and the support your performance received.
• Quantify your achievements. Be as specific as possible whenever you can. Mention the size of the audience, the run of the show, or the percentage of ticket sales. This provides a clear picture of the scale and impact your work has.
• Use powerful verbs. Drop the boring “participated in” or “performed in" and choose more dynamic action words. For example, 'Led a cast of 20+ in a critically acclaimed rendition of “Hamlet”' packs a bigger punch than 'Acted in “Hamlet”'.

Let’s look at an example of an actor’s work experience section:

Supporting Actor

Flux Theater Troupe

Summerville, CT

03/2022 - Present

• Played a pivotal role in 3 major theater productions, receiving praise for versatility and character depth.
• Collaborated closely with directors and fellow actors, improving scene dynamics and overall flow.
• Attended 10+ workshops for skill enhancement, focusing on method acting and improvisation techniques.
• Took on the challenge of portraying a complex character in a modern adaptation of a classic play, leading to sold-out shows for two weeks straight.

What if I don’t have work experience?

If you're stepping onto the stage or set for the first time, not having a lengthy acting resume can seem daunting.

But your actor resume can still show your acting abilities and devotion to the craft!

All you have to do is list acting credits that aren’t contracted, such as school plays or club productions.

Here are some examples you can consider:

• Drama school or acting classes
• School or college theater roles
• Volunteering for community theater
• Personal or independent film projects
• Relevant workshops and seminars

For example, if you volunteered for a role in your local community theater's production, that’s a valuable experience that can boost your actor resume.

Here’s how that might look in practice:

Lead Actor & Assistant Director

Mapleton Community Theater

03/2021 - 10/2021

• Volunteered as the lead for a community production, receiving commendations for powerful performances.
• Assisted the director in scene setups and scheduling, ensuring smooth rehearsal sessions.
• Took charge of organizing a workshop for the cast, honing everyone's skills in voice modulation and body language.
• Interacted with the audience post-shows to gather feedback, leading to better performances and tighter scenes.
• Collaborated with local schools to host theater days, exposing students to the magic of stage acting.

#5. Mention Your Education

Actors do need formal training or workshops to refine their craft.

But if you've already landed significant roles, you don’t need to put too much emphasis on your education section .

Casting directors are more interested in your acting credits and specific skills. So, keep your education section brief and start with your most recent degree or course.

Here’s what you need to add:

• Degree Name. E.g., Bachelor in Dramatic Arts, Workshop in Method Acting
• Institution Name. E.g., The New York Acting Studio
• Location (optional). E.g., New York, NY
• Dates Attended. Stick to the mm/yyyy format for consistency (e.g. 08/2019 - 05/2022)

If you’re fresh out of acting school, you might want to delve deeper into your training. Describe specific courses or a standout performance to show off your acting prowess.

Here’s how this section would look on an actor’s resume:

Bachelor in Dramatic Arts, Specialization in Classical Theatre

The London Drama Academy

09/2019 - 07/2023

Courses: Shakespearean Performances, Voice and Movement Techniques, Improvisational Theatre, Character Development, Modern Drama Interpretation

#6. Mention Acting Workshops and Training Camps

In the acting world, honing your craft is the key to success. This is where acting workshops and training camps come in. 

These acting classes are usually taught by big names in the industry, so you get to learn from the best of the best and show it off on your actor resume.

Casting directors will be interested in seeing your skills, experience, and who you’ve learned from. Acting workshops and training camps show you’re always looking to improve.

Plus, you never know when a workshop you attended might catch a casting director’s eye or match a role they’re looking to fill.

Let’s take a look at an example of acting workshops on a resume:

Workshops & Training Camps

• Shakespearean Acting Intensive - June 2023 London Theatre Workshop, London, UK Instructor: Dame Judith Harrow
• Scene Study & Character Development - February 2023 New York Acting Studio, New York, NY Instructor: Michael Lorne

#7. List Your Relevant Skills

Another important section of your actor resume is dedicated to your skills.

Your talent and acting skills are your ticket to impressing directors and casting agents. Your skills as an actor can range from your ability to emote on cue to your knack for accents and dialects.

So, it's essential to highlight the right acting skills on your resume. You don’t need to jot down every single skill you have—just focus on the ones required by the role you’re after.

For example, if you're after a role in a historical drama, your singing skills might not be as crucial as your understanding of the era's language and mannerisms.

Here are some tips to create a standout skills section for your actor resume:

• Cater to the role. Read the casting call or role description carefully. If it mentions any specific skills, add the ones you have to your actor resume.
• Research the right skills and practice them. The world of acting is ever-evolving and diverse, and you never know what skills you’ll need for a role. Attend regular acting workshops to keep your acting skills sharp and stay updated on developments in the exact field you’re interested in. (E.g., if you’re looking to get into musical theater, practice your singing and dancing skills more than sword-fighting.)
• Separate your hard skills from your soft skills. Organize your soft skills (like communication) separately from your hard skills (like dancing or martial arts). This way, it's easier for casting directors to find exactly what they're looking for on your actor resume.

So you know how to list your acting skills.

Now here’s a list of the 65 most in-demand skills for actors to help inspire you!

65 Most In-Demand Acting Skills

17 acting soft skills.

• Active listening
• Collaboration
• Adaptability
• Emotional intelligence
• Observational skills
• Self-discipline
• Time management
• Reliability
• Problem-solving
• Cultural awareness
• Memory retention
• Public speaking
• Feedback receptivity

48 Acting Hard Skills

• Stanislavski Method
• Meisner Technique
• Lee Strasberg's Method
• Michael Chekhov Technique
• Uta Hagen's Technique
• Diction and pronunciation
• Voice modulation
• Breath control
• Script analysis
• Sight reading
• Cold reading
• Improvisation
• Physical characterization
• Vocal projection
• Accent acquisition
• Movement techniques
• Stage fighting
• Film acting techniques
• TV acting techniques
• Theatrical stage presence
• Singing and vocal training
• Comedic timing
• Dramatic interpretation
• Character development
• Audition techniques
• Monologue mastery
• Classical training
• Alexander Technique
• Camera awareness
• Voice-over technique
• Motion capture technique
• Dialect coaching
• Period-specific training (e.g., Renaissance, Victorian, etc.)
• Stage makeup application
• Casting Networks
• Commercial acting techniques
• Scene study
• Vocal warm-up routines
• Memorization techniques
• Self-taping and recording
• Use of props and set elements
• Ensemble work

You don’t need to be an Oscar enthusiast to know that awards make a difference.

As an actor, your awards show casting directors how endorsed your talents are and what you can bring to the table—applause, recognition, and sales. 

Just to give you an idea, casting directors and audiences alike want some of the most nominated actors .

Whether it’s a prestigious international honor or a local theater award, dedicating a section to these accomplishments in your actor resume helps set you apart from other candidates for the same role.

Here’s what your awards can look like on your resume:

Awards & Honors

• Best Supporting Actor - 2023 International Film Festival for "Whispers in the Wind"
• Outstanding Theater Performance - 2021 National Theater Awards for "Midnight's Lullaby"
• Emerging Talent of the Year - 2019 Global Acting Guild Awards

#9. References

Unlike many fields, where references on your resume are optional and rarely checked, the acting world thrives on trust and reputation.

A director or casting agent might recognize a reference’s name, such as an actor who mentored you or a reviewer who’s written about you.

References on your actor resume don’t have to be limited to the names and contact details of someone you know. You can include links to your past work, testimonials, reviews, and more.

Casting directors or agents will likely recognize the name of your reference or the publication you’re mentioned in, and that can give you instant credibility. 

References from respected industry professionals can also back up your work ethic and reliability, which means no one will have to worry about you being unreliable.

Here’s an example of what references can look like on your actor resume:

• James Langley Family friend and retired Broadway actor [email protected] (555) 123-4567
• Theater Performance Review Stellar Performance in 'Moonlit Dreams' by Candice Terry Link: www.theatertimes.com/moonlitdreams-review

#10. Consider Adding Optional Sections

If you have any room left on your actor resume, you can fill it up using optional sections.

These sections are like powdering your nose one last time before jumping onto the stage - they aren’t essential, but they can be a nice touch that helps your resume stand out.

Here are some optional sections you can include:

• Memberships. Being a member of an acting guild or other organization can show dedication to your field, which might sway a hiring manager.
• Certifications. Any certifications that might be useful for the job are a great addition, such as teaching qualifications if you want to be an acting coach.
• Languages. Knowing a foreign language can help you land international roles.
• Hobbies and interests. How you spend your free time can show casting directors that you’re perfect for a certain role. For example, if you play the guitar and you’re auditioning for the role of a rock star, that puts you ahead of actors who can’t.

#11. Create a Matching Cover Letter

When you’re auditioning for a job as an actor, you might wonder— do I even need a cover letter ?

In short, yes. Yes, you do.

Hiring managers don’t just like cover letters; they expect them. So skipping this final step could have consequences.

Writing a cover letter shows that you’re a dedicated candidate and that you truly want this specific role in this specific production.

Here’s an example of a great cover letter for an actor:

Now that you know what a perfect cover letter looks like, it’s time to write your own!

Just follow these cover letter tips , and you’re sure to impress the director:

• Match your contact information. Your cover letter should have a header with the same contact information as your resume. Add the contact information of the hiring manager or place you’re applying to, and keep an eye out for any typos .
• Greet the hiring manager. If you can, find out who’s casting and address them by name. Personalizing your application gives a good impression.
• Open with the highlights. You should always start with a paragraph to pique the hiring manager’s interest. Mention what role you’re writing for and an achievement or qualification that makes you perfect for the role
• Get into the details. The main part of your cover letter should get into the nitty-gritty details of your career so far and elaborate on anything you think your actor resume didn’t give you enough space for. This is the place where your way with words should convince the hiring manager that you’re perfect for the role.
• Wrap it up professionally. Always finish your cover letter with a call to action that invites the hiring manager to do something, like arrange an audition or contact you. And don’t forget to use an appropriate closing line before signing off with your name.

Key Takeaways

And, scene!

That’s everything there is to know about writing your actor resume. Hopefully, now you feel confident about your upcoming audition!

But before you go get that applause, let’s recap what we talked about so far:

• The reverse-chronological resume format is usually the best choice for any actor's resume since it’s a favorite across industries.
• Your resume should include an interesting resume summary that can impress any casting director or hiring manager for the job you have your sights set on.
• Keep your education section brief since your work experience and other achievements carry a lot more weight.
• Tailor your acting skills according to the role you’re auditioning for. The more relevant your skills and experience are, the better.
• Some sections that are usually optional, like workshops, awards, and references, carry a lot of weight to an actor’s resume, so always add them if possible.
• Don’t forget to pair your actor resume with a matching cover letter and increase your odds of impressing the hiring manager.

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Actor/Actress Resume Examples and Templates for 2024

Actor/Actress Resume Templates and Examples (Download in App)

Most popular actor/actress resumes.

• Acting Coach
• Drama Teacher
• Background Actor
• Voice Actor
• Film Director
• Resume Text Examples

How To Write an Actor/Actress Resume

• Entry-Level
• Senior-Level

Acting Coach Resume Example

Drama Teacher Resume Example

Background Actor Resume Example

Voice Actor Resume Example

Dance Resume Example

Film Director Resume Example

Music Resume Example

Actor/Actress Text-Only Resume Templates and Examples

Selena Ramirez (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio New York, NY 12345

A dynamic actress with five years of experience performing in high-quality musical theater productions. Adept at utilizing improvisation techniques during high-pressure performances. Achieved recognition from local critics for the role of Laurey Williams in “Oklahoma!” Received vocal training from acclaimed Broadway actress Vera Cosgrove.

Physical Attributes

• Height: 5’7”
• Weight: 135
• Eyes: Brown
• Hair: Blonde
• Vocal: Soprano

• Tony Awards Best Actress Nomination, Rent, Mimi, 2019
• Character acting
• Improvisation
• Musical theater

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Drama Columbia University, New York, NY September 2014 – June 2018

Allison Rosenberg (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio New York, NY 12345

An award-winning actress with seven years of experience performing in high-profile theater productions. Adept at bringing complex, emotionally scarred characters to life for audiences using the Stanislavski method. Achieved a best supporting actress Tony Award for the role of Ginny in “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.”

• Height: 5’6
• Weight: 130
• Hair: Brown

• Best supporting actress, Tony Awards, Ginny Potter, 2020
• Method acting
• Soprano vocal range
• Stanislavski method

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Drama Columbia University, New York, NY September 2012 – June 2016

John Bergsen (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio Los Angeles, CA 12345

An accomplished actor with over 10 years of experience performing in high-profile theater, film, and television, including “Black Mirror” and a Broadway “Hamlet” production. Achieved two best supporting actor nominations from the Screen Actors Guild for emotionally charged and dynamic performances.

• Height: 6’2”
• Weight: 210
• Eyes: Hazel
• Vocal: Baritone

• SAG Awards, best supporting actor in a limited series, Black Mirror, 2017
• Tony Awards, best supporting actor, Judas, Jesus Christ Superstar, 2016

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Drama University of Los Angeles, Los Angeles, September 2007 – June 2011

Unlike most industries, actors and actresses are assessed for potential casting call opportunities based on their professional portfolios and headshots. The effectiveness of your agent also plays an important factor in securing auditions. Your resume functions as a supplemental document detailing all of your previous roles, theater organizations, studios, and directors.

This gives casting directors a full overview of your acting career, most powerful performances, and most prominent skill sets, from character acting and singing to improvisation techniques. We’ll provide expert tips and insights to help you craft an impactful actor/actress resume.

1. Write a compelling profile summarizing your acting qualifications

When you’re looking for an acting job, regardless of the medium, someone seeks the right person to fill that role. To grab the attention of production studios, create an engaging opening summary that highlights your strongest performances and most prestigious roles. Also, feature relevant awards to make a lasting impression on the casting director.

Actor/Actress Professional Profile - Example 1

Actor/actress professional profile - example 2, 2. add an accomplishment-driven professional experience section.

To generate auditions for acting roles, feature key performances to grab the attention of studios, theaters, and production companies. Unlike a typical resume, bullet points are unnecessary in most instances. Directors are much more interested in the roles you’ve played and the types of productions you’ve been involved with. Include this detail on your resume if you worked with a particularly prominent director.

Actor/Actress Professional Experience - Example 1

Actor/Actress Professional Experience - Example 2

3. Include relevant education, training, and awards

It’s important to list your formal education and training on your resume. Casting directors may be impressed by the program you attended. They might also be familiar with the person who provided you with vocal or acting training. Also, feature your awards prominently on your resume. Audience and critic reviews are one of the most reliable indicators of the success of your performances.

• [Certification Name], [Awarding Organization], [Completion Year]
• SAG Awards, best supporting actor in a limited series, “Black Mirror,” 2017
• Tony Awards, best supporting actor, Judas, “Jesus Christ Superstar,” 2016
• [Degree Name]
• [School Name], [City, State Abbreviation] [Dates Enrolled]
• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Drama
• Columbia University, New York, NY September 2014 – June 2018

4. List relevant key skills and proficiencies

Unlike resumes for more traditional jobs, an actor’s resume will not be put through applicant tracking system (ATS) software. It’s almost certainly going to be first handled by a theater director or casting director for a film, TV series, or commercial. They want to see what work the actor has done in the past. It’s still beneficial to highlight key skills that directors will be looking for, including acting techniques and vocal ranges:

5. Include a headshot on your resume or separately

Although this can impact the format of your template, it is appropriate to include a headshot on an actor/actress’s resume. This would be inadvisable in standard instances due to the human resources (HR) implications, but this situation is different. Casting directors need to see what you look like to identify the role they want you to audition for.

How To Pick the Best Actor/Actress Resume Template

You have more flexibility when selecting templates for actor/actress roles in comparison to other industries. Because you won’t be featuring long, detailed bullet points, you can choose a template that you find compelling so long as the information is still well-organized on the page. One thing to avoid is the use of graphics, as they won’t add any value to your document and may distract the reader from your performance history.

Frequently Asked Questions: Actor/Actress Resume Examples and Advice

How do you align your resume with a job description -.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) , acting jobs will grow 8% from 2021 to 2031. Although this level of growth is encouraging, statistics indicate there are only 7,000 new openings for actors and actresses each year. To maximize your chances of landing auditions, you’ll need to align your resume with the types of roles that casting directors are seeking to fill.

For example, if you’re seeking a part in a musical theater production on Broadway, prioritize those performances in your professional experience section. If you’re seeking an audition for a television or film role, draw attention to that aspect of your acting background in your professional profile. But if you lack the experience the casting director is looking for, emphasize your strongest and most compelling performances throughout your career.

What is the best actor/actress resume format? -

Actors and actresses use a different format style compared to most other industries. A reverse chronological approach is inapplicable here since your work experience doesn’t require a detailed explanation. In some ways, it’s similar to a functional resume, as it lacks detailed bullet points. There are key differences, however, as a functional resume format prioritizes skills, whereas an actor/actress resume is centered around your performances and awards.

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Although a cover letter is unlikely to be required for a casting call, there are rare instances where it might be worth including alongside your resume. One benefit to the cover letter is that it enables you to show your passion for acting using different language and more detail. If you’re familiar with the director’s work, mention something about a previous production and why you’re excited about the opportunity to work with them. For more insights, visit our acting cover letter guide.

Frank Hackett

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)

Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).

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