How to make a Theatre or Film Acting Resume

So you're ready to get professional about acting and get a resume? Learn from a veteran industry actor and director what is expected and works for an acting resume, and what will get you the attention you need to succeed!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Paper
• A comprehensive list of your credits and skills
• a computer

1. Be sure your name and contact information is clearly legible at the top. It's always a good idea to bold and increase the size of your name so it stands out. If you have an agency, be sure their information is prominently placed as well.

2. Next, list your personal information. Height, Weight, Eye and Hair Color. Next any acting union affiliations. A few optional things might include age range (especially for character actors), and vocal range (for musical theatre performers). Try to keep this area easy to read and don't clutter it with too much information.

3. Continue by making a comprehensive list of your credits (i.e. your college or community theatre productions, any student films you may have done, etc.). Start this as a chronological list, beginning with your most recent credit, and ending with your first, so you cover everything.

4. Now categorize your list. I recommend having clear categories: Film, T.V., theatre, etc. Then within your categories, organize by venue and type: "Theatre - Broadway". "Theatre - Off-Broadway". "Theatre - Community" or "Regional Theatre", are some examples. If all you have is one type of theatre credit (i.e. "Children's Theatre") just use the big category of theatre.

5. Now put your credits into columns. Begin with the largest category (or the category that you have the most experience in or the most impressive credits) at the top. List your credits by the title of the show, then the theatre or network that produced it, and then it's not a bad idea to mention the director. Do this with each category.

6. Next, list your training. Create a category listing like the ones mentioned. If you have a degree in the arts, especially a performance degree, list this one first. Then list any other programs or certifications you may have. Then list your private acting, dance, or vocal instructors at the bottom.

7. Now create a "Special Skills" category. List all your relevant special skills - the ones that help you stand out from the crowd. Especially list physical skills (such as rock climbing, surfing, etc.), and areas of expertise (carpentry, dramaturgy, wine knowledge, etc.). It's also a good idea to list if you have any licenses (such as a driver's license or boat license).

Tips & Warnings

• A resume in the acting world should be no longer than a page. Traditionally they are printed on the back of your 8x10 headshot. They should be clear, concise, and give the best impression of your skills and credits.
• See if your resume passes the "ten second test". Most casting directors or agents will only glance at a resume at the most for ten seconds. You want to grab their attention and send their eye to the most pertinent information about you. Give your resume to a friend for ten seconds and then see if they come away with what you want them to get.
• Avoid garish colors or fonts that are too fancy. Those resumes are highly unprofessional and will more than likely end up in the trash. Likewise, try not to go too plain - these look uninteresting and likewise unprofessional. Find the balance between form and fashion that represents you on the page, without assaulting the eyes. Remember, a director or casting person wants to get the most information possible without getting distracted by pictures of daisies or neon colors.
• For added privacy, it's usually a good idea not to have your home address on your resume. If you have an agency, use their contact info only. If it's necessary for your personal contact information to be on your resume, limit it to email and a phone number. Too many times resumes get thrown out and no one knows whose hands they might end up in.

[jdsasser]

on 1/1/2008 If you don't have any acting experience, then list your training (school, university, private classes, you name it...) and then list your special skills. It will be apparent to the casting directors that you are just starting out, and if they like your look, you may get called! But the first step to getting a call is getting the materials!

[famousmeggs]

on 12/31/2007 what do you write if this is your first acting job?