Acting Professional Resume examples & templates
Copyable Acting Professional Resume examples
Like surgeons who perform under intense pressure with every incision, actors step into the spotlight carrying the weight of an entire production on their shoulders. But while medical professionals follow established protocols, actors must simultaneously embody technical precision and raw emotional vulnerability—often with just seconds to transition between vastly different emotional states. The acting profession has undergone remarkable shifts since the pandemic, with self-tapes now accounting for approximately 74% of initial auditions according to a 2023 Casting Society survey. Gone are the days when actors could simply excel on stage or screen; today's performers need to be multimedia entrepreneurs capable of creating quality self-submissions, maintaining social media presence, and navigating an increasingly fragmented content landscape.
The boundary between "working actor" and "celebrity" continues to blur as streaming platforms create more opportunities for performers who might have remained regional talents in previous decades. With production companies increasingly valuing authenticity over traditional casting types, actors who bring unique perspectives and lived experiences are finding more pathways to sustainable careers than at any point in the industry's history.
Junior Acting Professional Resume Example
JACKSON RIVERA
Los Angeles, CA | (323) 555-0187 | j.rivera.actor@email.com | linkedin.com/in/jacksonrivera
Emerging actor with training in method acting and classical theater, complemented by on-camera experience in student films and independent productions. Quick study with strong memorization skills and natural adaptability to different character types. Currently seeking roles that challenge my emotional range while building my professional portfolio.
EXPERIENCE
Featured Background Actor – Various Productions, Los Angeles, CA
January 2023 – Present
- Performed as background talent in 3 network television shows including “City Lights” (NBC) and “Westside Medical” (ABC)
- Maintained professionalism during 12+ hour shooting days, following precise directions while remaining “in the moment”
- Built relationships with casting directors, resulting in 40% callback rate for similar productions
- Studied lead actors’ techniques during scenes, incorporating observations into personal acting method
Supporting Role Actor – “The Forgotten Corner” Short Film
October 2022 – December 2022
- Portrayed complex character with minimal dialogue, relying on physical expression and emotional subtext
- Collaborated with director to develop character backstory that informed performance choices
- Adapted quickly to script changes during production, memorizing new dialogue within hours
- Film screened at 2 regional film festivals, receiving positive audience feedback
Theater Performer – Echo Park Community Theater, Los Angeles, CA
August 2021 – May 2022
- Cast in supporting roles for two productions: “Our Town” and “The Glass Menagerie”
- Participated in 8 weeks of rehearsals while maintaining perfect attendance record
- Performed in 17 shows with audiences ranging from 50-120 people
- Assisted with set changes and prop management between scenes, learning technical aspects of production
Acting Student Showcase Participant – Westwood Acting Workshop
January 2021 – June 2021
- Selected among 35 students to perform monologue for industry showcase attended by agents and casting directors
- Received coaching on audition techniques and cold reading skills
- Performed in student-directed scenes, applying various acting methodologies
EDUCATION
Certificate in Professional Acting – Westwood Acting Workshop, Los Angeles, CA
Completed June 2021
Bachelor of Arts in Communications – California State University, Northridge
Graduated May 2020
Minor in Theater Arts
TRAINING & WORKSHOPS
On-Camera Technique Intensive – The Actors Space, Los Angeles, CA (2022)
Meisner Technique Workshop – Scott Wilson Studio, Burbank, CA (2021)
Voice & Movement for Actors – Lisa Dalton Workshop Series (2021)
SKILLS
- Character development
- Script analysis
- Cold reading
- Meisner technique
- Improvisation
- Stage combat (basic)
- Dialect work (Standard American, Southern, British RP)
- Movement/physical theater
- Teleprompter reading
- Basic dance (jazz, contemporary)
- Singing (baritone)
SPECIAL SKILLS
- Conversational Spanish
- Valid driver’s license
- Swimming (competitive background)
- Horseback riding (beginner)
Mid-level Acting Professional Resume Example
Melissa Chen
Los Angeles, CA 90028 | (323) 555-7819 | melissa.chen@email.com | linkedin.com/in/melissachen
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
Versatile screen and stage actor with 5+ years of experience across independent films, regional theater, and commercial work. Trained in Meisner technique with additional background in movement and voice. Known for quick memorization, adaptability on set, and bringing authentic emotion to complex characters. SAG-AFTRA member with growing network of industry relationships.
EXPERIENCE
Working Actor – Freelance, Los Angeles, CA (Jan 2021 – Present)
- Booked 7 national commercials including campaigns for Toyota, Neutrogena, and Grubhub, generating consistent income and exposure
- Landed supporting role in Netflix original series “Midnight Echo” (Season 2), working alongside Emmy-nominated actors through 6-week production
- Performed lead role in critically-acclaimed independent film “The Space Between Words,” which screened at 3 film festivals including SXSW
- Built relationships with 4 casting directors resulting in repeated audition opportunities and 31% booking rate
- Maintained self-tape studio setup and typically delivered auditions within 24 hours of receiving sides
Company Member – Westside Repertory Theater, Los Angeles, CA (Aug 2019 – Dec 2021)
- Performed in 8 productions over 2 seasons, including 2 lead roles that received positive mentions in LA Times reviews
- Participated in weekly workshops and table reads for new play development with local playwrights
- Contributed to company’s social media presence, increasing Instagram following by 47% through behind-the-scenes content
- Assisted with theater education program, teaching basic acting techniques to high school students (2-3 hours weekly)
Production Assistant/Background Actor – Various Productions, Chicago, IL (Sep 2017 – Jul 2019)
- Worked on 12+ sets including “Chicago Fire,” “Empire,” and various commercials while building industry connections
- Gained valuable on-set experience observing directors, DPs, and lead actors while performing background roles
- Assisted production team with script distribution, set preparation, and talent coordination on independent feature “Northside”
- Filled last-minute background casting needs through reliable availability and professional reputation
EDUCATION & TRAINING
BFA in Theater Arts – Northwestern University, Evanston, IL (2013-2017)
Meisner Technique Intensive – Steppenwolf Theater Company, Chicago (2018)
On-Camera Commercial Workshop – Gray Talent Group, Chicago (2019)
Voice & Movement for Screen – The Groundlings, Los Angeles (2020)
Advanced Scene Study – The Actors Studio, Los Angeles (2021-2022)
SKILLS
- Acting Techniques: Meisner, Method, Classical
- Dialects: British (RP), Southern American, New York
- Movement: Stage Combat, Dance (Jazz, Contemporary)
- Self-Tape Production & Editing
- Script Analysis & Quick Memorization
- Teleprompter Reading
- Improvisation
- Sight Reading
- Basic Stunt Work
- Singing (Mezzo-Soprano)
SPECIAL SKILLS & ATTRIBUTES
- Valid US Passport and Driver’s License
- Fluent in Mandarin Chinese and conversational Spanish
- Comfortable with intimate scenes (closed set)
- Skilled at horseback riding and swimming
- SAG-AFTRA Member in Good Standing
Senior / Experienced Acting Professional Resume Example
JULIA THORNTON
Los Angeles, CA • (323) 555-8721 • julia.thornton@email.com • linkedin.com/in/juliathornton
Versatile character actress with 11+ years of professional experience across film, television, and stage productions. Known for quick script memorization and ability to switch between comedic and dramatic roles. Trained in Meisner technique with specialized skills in dialect work (British RP, Southern American, New York). Union member with proven ability to book recurring roles while maintaining theatrical commitments.
EXPERIENCE
Series Regular – “Riverside General” – CBS/Paramount
March 2019 – Present
- Portray Dr. Elaine Winters across 87 episodes, developing character from guest spot into series regular
- Coordinate with writers on character development, resulting in 2 Emmy-nominated episodes
- Manage demanding 14-hour shooting days while maintaining vocal consistency and energy
- Memorize 25-42 pages of medical dialogue weekly, often with less than 24 hours notice
- Mentor 3 junior cast members on set protocol and scene preparation techniques
Working Actor – Various Productions – Los Angeles/New York
June 2015 – March 2019
- Booked 17 guest star roles on network television shows including “Law & Order: SVU,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” and “This Is Us”
- Performed supporting role in indie feature “The Last Mile” (Sundance selection 2017)
- Completed 6-month run in “A Streetcar Named Desire” at the Geffen Playhouse
- Created and performed one-woman show “Conversations with My Mother” at 4 fringe festivals
- Voiced recurring character in “Darkwater Chronicles” podcast (137 episodes)
Company Member – Horizon Theatre Company – Atlanta, GA
August 2012 – May 2015
- Performed in 11 main stage productions and 7 staged readings over 3 seasons
- Taught 6 acting workshops for teens, with 89% of participants rating experience as “excellent”
- Understudied 4 roles while performing track roles, stepping in with 2 hours notice for injured actor
- Participated in new play development, collaborating with playwrights on character creation
EDUCATION & TRAINING
MFA in Acting – Yale School of Drama – New Haven, CT
2009 – 2012
BA in Theatre Arts – Northwestern University – Evanston, IL
2005 – 2009
Additional Training:
- Meisner Technique – Terry Knickerbocker Studio (2 years)
- On-Camera Acting – Lesly Kahn & Company (Advanced)
- Dialect Intensive – Knight-Thompson Speechwork
- Improv – Upright Citizens Brigade (Levels 1-4)
- Stage Combat – Society of American Fight Directors (Certified)
SKILLS
- Dialects: Standard British, Cockney, Irish, Southern American, New York, Russian
- Singing: Soprano (trained, 2-octave range)
- Dancing: Ballet (12 years), Jazz (8 years), Tap (4 years)
- Stunts: Basic stage combat, falls, horseback riding
- Languages: Conversational Spanish, basic French
- Special Skills: Valid passport, driver’s license, motorcycle license, SCUBA certified
- Technical: Self-tape setup, basic editing, teleprompter proficient
UNION AFFILIATIONS
SAG-AFTRA, Actors’ Equity Association
How to Write an Acting Professional Resume
Introduction
Landing that dream role starts with a standout resume. For actors, your resume isn't just a list of past jobs—it's a marketing tool that showcases your range, experience, and unique qualities. I've helped hundreds of actors revamp their resumes, and the difference between getting called in or passed over often comes down to how you present yourself on paper. Your headshot gets you noticed, but your resume gets you considered.
Your acting resume should be concise enough to fit on a single page while highlighting your most impressive credits. When paired with your headshot (typically attached back-to-back), it creates your professional calling card.
Resume Structure and Format
Keep your acting resume clean, scannable, and industry-standard. Casting directors often spend just 6-8 seconds scanning each resume, so clarity is essential.
- Stick to one page (8.5" x 11") that can be printed on the back of your headshot
- Use a clean, professional font like Arial or Times New Roman in 10-12pt size
- Include your name prominently at the top (matching how it appears on your headshot)
- List contact info (or your agent's) including phone, email, and website/reel link
- Include physical characteristics: height, weight, hair color, eye color, vocal range
- Organize credits by category (Film, Television, Theater, Commercials) rather than chronologically
Profile/Summary Section
While not always necessary for acting resumes, a brief profile can help highlight special skills or your "type." Keep it under three lines and focus on what makes you castable.
Example: "Versatile character actor with classical training and combat certification. Strong comedic timing with experience in both dramatic and physical comedy roles. Fluent in Spanish with authentic Mexican accent."
Professional Experience
This is the meat of your resume. List your acting credits in reverse order of importance (not chronologically) within each category.
- Format each credit as: Production Title, Role, Production Company/Theater
- For film/TV: "The Night Shift" (Supporting), HBO
- For theater: "A Streetcar Named Desire" (Stanley), Roundabout Theatre
- Bold your role or the production title (be consistent throughout)
- For less experienced actors, include student films, web series, and workshop productions
- Never lie about credits—the industry is smaller than you think!
Education and Training
Acting is a craft that requires training. Highlight your education, especially if you're early in your career.
- List formal degree programs: "BFA Acting, NYU Tisch School of the Arts"
- Include significant workshops and masterclasses with notable teachers
- Add specialized training: "Meisner Technique - William Esper Studio (2 years)"
- Mention relevant non-acting education if it helps position you for certain roles
Special Skills
This often-overlooked section can set you apart for specific roles. Be specific and honest about proficiency levels.
- Accents/languages (specify fluency level)
- Movement skills (dance styles, stage combat, martial arts)
- Musical abilities (instruments played, vocal range)
- Unique talents (juggling, skateboarding, horseback riding)
- Sports and athletic abilities (specify skill level)
ATS Tips for Film/TV Productions
While theater casting rarely uses Applicant Tracking Systems, film and TV productions increasingly do. For these opportunities:
- Include keywords from the character breakdown in your resume
- List your union affiliations prominently (SAG-AFTRA, Equity, etc.)
- Save your resume as a PDF with your name in the filename
- Maintain a text-only version for online submissions where formatting might get stripped
Common Mistakes to Avoid
After reviewing thousands of acting resumes, these errors stand out as immediate red flags:
- Including "extra" work or background roles (unless you have no other experience)
- Using unusual fonts, colors, or graphics that distract from content
- Listing unrelated non-acting jobs (your barista experience isn't relevant)
- Including personal information like age, marital status, or religious affiliation
- Making your resume too dense and hard to scan quickly
Before/After Example
Before: "Was in Hamlet at City Theater playing Polonius with director Sam Smith"
After: "Hamlet" (Polonius), City Theater, dir. Sam Smith
The improved version is concise, follows industry standard formatting, and makes it easy for casting directors to quickly assess your experience level and role significance.
Related Resume Examples
Soft skills for your Acting Professional resume
- Emotional intelligence and character analysis – ability to authentically embody diverse personas while maintaining professional boundaries
- Quick improvisation under pressure (saved a live performance when a co-star forgot their lines during the opening night of “The Glass Menagerie”)
- Collaborative ensemble building – fostering trust within casts of 5-30 people, often in high-stress production environments
- Physical storytelling and non-verbal communication mastery (trained in Meisner and Viewpoints techniques)
- Receptiveness to direction while maintaining creative voice – finding the balance between taking notes and contributing original interpretations
- Resilience through rejection – maintaining confidence and craft development despite hearing “no” at 19 of 20 auditions (industry standard)
Hard skills for your Acting Professional resume
- Meisner Technique
- Stage Combat (BASSC Level 2 Certification)
- Voice-Over Recording & Self-Taping
- Dialect Proficiency (RP, Cockney, Southern American)
- On-Camera Acting for Television/Film
- Audition Repertoire Management
- Contract Negotiation
- ProTools Recording Software
- Shakespeare Text Analysis