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Theater resume example & writing guide

This resume example is perfect if you are a performing artist who works in musical theatre or film. Whether you take on roles in plays, films, television shows, or other forms of entertainment to bring characters to life, this resume example will give you the edge you need to make it in show business.

What should your theater resume include?

A resume for someone in theater should outline experience working in theater and musical theater. It can also include any film production experience. To showcase a strong background in theater, be sure to include credits and past roles with director names listed. Your resume should also list any industry affiliations with organizations such as unions. To stand out, add personal details including height, weight, and hair color. Depending on the role, physical attributes can weigh heavily in the casting process, so be sure to incorporate a professional headshot.

Why use this auditor resume example?

In this example, the resume starts with more details than a typical corporate resume. The header includes personal information like height, weight, and hair color. Appearances matter in theater, so this example also includes a space for a headshot at the top right. A high-quality, professional headshot can be the deciding factor for an up-and-coming actor or actress looking to break into the industry.

The opening summary is strong and succinct. It specifies this candidate’s talents in singing, playing instruments, and dancing. It goes on to showcase her experience with martial arts and how it can be incorporated into stage combat.

This resume separates past projects into categories like theater, film, and other performing arts styles specifying if the role was a lead or supporting capacity. This makes it easy for the reader to find the particular information they are looking for.

Educational background is also important in the theater industry. In our example, we added formal college degrees as well as acting school accolades. Be sure to include the school name and area of study. 

The layout is very simple and clean, which works well in the entertainment industry as busy casting directors and theater producers typically have limited time to review resumes. There is a hint of color at the top which is acceptable in a more liberal industry like theater. 

Which key skills are relevant for a theater resume?

Using relevant keywords and skills in your theater resume can help catch the attention of casting directors and demonstrate your qualifications. Here are some key skills to consider for a theater resume:

  • Acting

  • Stage performance

  • Character portrayal

  • Theater production

  • Auditions

  • Improvisation

  • Voice training

  • Script analysis

Example

Summary example

  • Talented singer (soprano), dancer (ballet, jazz, contemporary, ballroom), and musician (cello, guitar, piano) with extensive experience leading and acting in diverse musical theatre and film productions.

  • Proficient in martial arts (Kung fu, Tae kwon do, Capoeira) as well as armed and unarmed stage combat.

  • Strong capacity for line memorization and adjusting performance as per direction or acting instructions.

Employment history example

Theater Experience

  • Lead, “Angels in America”, Cherry Lane Theater Company, Director: Kevin Wilson

  • Lead, “The Glass Menagerie”, The Public Theater, Director: Jose Rodriguez

  • Supporting, “A Raisin in the Sun,” Central Theater, Director: Rita Berry

  • Lead, Waiting for Godot,” Golden Theater, Director: Henry Smith

  • Supporting, “Hamlet,” Main Street Theater, Director: Alan McNally

Film/Television Experience

  • Lead, “Love Triangle”, Short Film, Director: Blanche Baker

  • Supporting, “Dear John”, Television, Director: Trevor Hansen

  • Lead, “The End of Time”, Short Film Director: Melissa Meriwether

Education example

  • Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and Literature at The University of Iowa.

  • Summer Shakespeare Intensive at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts.

  • Summer Intensive at Atlantic Acting School.

Union SAG-AFTRA

Personal details

  • Height: 6’2”

  • Hair Color: Dark brown

  • Weight: 210 lbs

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