When it comes to creating a theatre resume, giving it an easy-to-read layout and proper formatting and structure is crucial. In this section, we will cover the standard format and font for a theatre resume, the structure, and tips on creating an easy-to-read layout. Finally, we’ll provide examples of formatted resumes to inspire your own.

Standard format and font

The standard format for a theatre resume is to use one standard font throughout the document, usually 11 or 12 point size. Some of the most commonly used fonts include Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri. Ensure that the font is legible and easy to read for the reader. It is also important to keep in mind that the format should remain consistent throughout the whole resume to showcase a professional appearance.

Structure of a theatre resume

A theatre resume should include the following sections in the order listed below:

Contact Information
Professional Experience
Education
Training
Skills
Special Awards or Recognition
References

Make sure to include the most important and relevant information in each section to showcase your experiences and qualifications.

Tips for an easy-to-read layout

To create an easy-to-read layout for your theatre resume, consider using bullet points, subheadings, and columns to make the document clear and concise. Avoid using lengthy paragraphs and utilize white space to organize the information. It is important to include only the most important information in each section, trimming off unnecessary details. The goal is to create a clear and concise theatre resume that is easy to scan through and understand.

Relevant Information

When it comes to crafting a theatre resume, the information you include is crucial. Here are some essential elements you should always include:

A. Essential information to include

Your full name and contact information (email and phone number)
Your union status (if applicable)
Your performance history, including show titles, roles, and theatre companies
Your education and training, including degrees, programs, and mentors

B. Choosing the right order of information

It’s important to choose an order that showcases your strengths and helps you stand out. Consider highlighting your most impressive credits first, or grouping your experience by roles or theatre companies. You can also organize your resume chronologically or by relevance to the role you’re applying for.

C. Tips for tailoring information to the role

Keep in mind that different roles require different skills and experience. When applying for a specific role, focus on including the elements of your resume that best showcase your suitability for that specific job. For example, if you’re applying for a dance-heavy role, highlight your dance training and performance history prominently.

D. Examples of customized resumes

To demonstrate how to tailor your resume to specific roles, here are a few examples of customized resumes. These examples show how to emphasize different skills and experience based on the job you’re applying for, while still following standard theatre resume formatting guidelines.

Headline and Objective Statement

When it comes to writing a theatre resume, the headline and objective statement are two crucial sections that can make or break your chances of getting noticed by casting directors. Your headline is the first thing that people will see, and a strong headline can pique their interest and make them want to learn more. The objective statement, on the other hand, helps to set the tone and purpose of your resume. In this section, we’ll discuss the importance of a catchy headline, tips for writing a strong headline, the purpose of the objective statement, tips for writing an effective objective statement, and provide examples of headlines and objective statements.

A. Importance of a Catchy Headline

The headline of your theatre resume should be attention-grabbing and memorable. The goal of your headline is to stand out from a sea of other resumes and make a lasting impression on the reader. A catchy headline can help you achieve just that. Without a compelling headline, your resume may end up overlooked or dismissed.

B. Tips for Writing a Strong Headline

To write a strong headline, consider the following tips:

Keep it concise and to the point.
Use active verbs and descriptive language to make it more engaging.
Highlight your best attributes and achievements.
Use industry-specific terminology to demonstrate your knowledge and professionalism.
Be creative and unique, but don’t sacrifice clarity for the sake of being clever.

C. Purpose of the Objective Statement

The objective statement on your theatre resume is a brief summary of your career aspirations and what you hope to achieve through your work. This section serves as an introduction to your resume and helps casting directors understand your goals and motivations. It also helps to establish your brand and set you apart from other applicants.

D. Tips for Writing an Effective Objective Statement

To write an effective objective statement, consider the following tips:

Be clear and concise.
Focus on your specific career goals and how they relate to the position you are applying for.
Tailor your objective statement to each job application.
Use industry-specific language to demonstrate your knowledge of the field.
Avoid vague or generic statements that could apply to anyone.

E. Examples of Headlines and Objective Statements

Here are some examples of strong headlines and objective statements for a theatre resume:

Headlines:

Award-winning Actor with a Passion for Character Development
Skilled Sound Designer with Experience in Large-Scale Productions
Creative Director with a Flair for Innovative Set Design

Objective Statements:

Seeking a challenging role in a fast-paced theatre environment where I can utilize my skills in acting and character development to create compelling performances.
To obtain a position as a sound designer where I can contribute my expertise in sound engineering and design in order to enhance the overall production and create immersive theatre experiences.

Experience

When it comes to writing a theatre resume, your experience section is one of the most important parts. This is where you’ll list all of the theatre-related work you’ve done in the past, which can range from acting, directing, and stage management to lighting design or costume construction. Here are some tips on how to effectively showcase your experience on your theatre resume.

A. Listing work experience

First things first: you need to list all of your work experience related to the theatre, in reverse chronological order. Start with your most recent job and work your way back. For each position, include the following information:

Position title – Be specific about the role you played. Were you the lead actor, the stage manager, or the assistant director?
Theatre name – List the name of the production company or theatre where you worked.
Location – Include the city and state where the theatre is located.
Dates – List the month and year you started and ended the job.

B. Choosing the right work experience to include

It’s important to choose which of your theatre-related jobs to include on your resume carefully. Don’t just list everything you’ve ever done; instead, focus on the positions that are most relevant to the job you’re applying for. For example, if you’re trying to get a role as an actor, you should emphasize your acting experience over any stage management work you’ve done.

C. Tips for emphasizing relevant experience

When listing your theatre-related work experience, you want to make sure you’re emphasizing the most relevant parts to the job you’re applying for. Here are some things you can do to make your experience stand out:

Use action verbs – Start each bullet point with an action verb that describes what you did in the role. For example, “acted,” “directed,” “designed,” “built,” etc.
Quantify your achievements – If possible, use numbers to demonstrate your accomplishments. For example, “successfully led a cast of 20 in a sold-out production,” or “designed and executed lighting for 10 productions to critical acclaim.”
Be concise – Keep your bullet points short and sweet. Try to limit yourself to one or two sentences per point.

D. Examples of professional experience

Lead Actor, “Romeo and Juliet”
- XYZ Theatre Company, New York City, NY
- Dates: January 2018 – May 2018
- Portrayed the role of Romeo in a contemporary adaptation of Shakespeare’s classic tragedy. Received critical acclaim for the performance.
Stage Manager, “The Importance of Being Earnest”
- ABC Theatre Company, Los Angeles, CA
- Dates: August 2016 – December 2016
- Managed all aspects of the production, including coordinating rehearsals, cueing technical elements, and maintaining communication among the cast and crew.
Lighting Designer, Various Productions
- DEF Theatre Company, Chicago, IL
- Dates: June 2014 – July 2016
- Designed lighting for multiple productions, creating visually stunning atmospheres that enhanced the storytelling. Collaborated closely with directors and other designers to achieve the desired artistic vision.

Remember, these examples are just a starting point. Tailor your resume to highlight the experiences that best demonstrate your skills and qualifications for the specific theatre job you are applying for. Be sure to include any notable achievements or recognition you received during your previous positions.

Conclusion

Effectively showcasing your experience on your theatre resume is crucial for grabbing the attention of casting directors, directors, or other theatre professionals. By listing your work experience in a clear and organized manner, emphasizing relevant roles, using action verbs, quantifying your achievements, and keeping your bullet points concise, you can create a compelling resume that highlights your qualifications and makes a strong impression.

Education and Training

As a theatre professional, listing your education and training is an essential part of creating a comprehensive resume. This section not only highlights your qualifications, but also demonstrates your commitment to ongoing learning within the field.

A. Importance of listing education and training

Including your education and training serves as a way to show potential employers that you possess the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the role. It can also showcase your dedication to advancing your understanding of various aspects of theatre and performing arts.

B. Choosing the right education and training to include

When it comes to selecting which education and training to include, consider the relevance to the position you’re applying for. If you’re applying to work in stage production, highlight courses or certifications that showcase your technical skills, such as training in lighting or sound design. Alternatively, if your focus is on acting, emphasize training in vocal techniques or physical movement.

C. Tips for emphasizing relevant education and training

Rather than just listing your qualifications, consider ways to showcase how they have prepared you for the specific role. You can do this by highlighting coursework that relates specifically to the job requirements, or by highlighting projects or performances that you worked on as part of your education or training.

D. Examples of education and training sections

Example 1: Technical Theatre

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Technical Theatre, XYZ University
Training in Lighting Design, ABC Technical Institute
Certified in Rigging Safety, DEF Safety Institute
Completed coursework in Stage Management and Production Design

Example 2: Acting

Master of Fine Arts in Acting, 123 University
Certified in Classical Voice, GHI Vocal Academy
Completed coursework in Stage Combat and Shakespearean Performance
Participated in a production of Hamlet, playing the role of Ophelia

By crafting a thorough education and training section for your theatre resume, you can demonstrate your qualifications and showcase your dedication to the craft. Use these tips to ensure that you emphasize the most relevant qualifications and make your resume stand out from the competition.

Skills

When it comes to creating a theatre resume, skills section is an essential component that showcases your proficiency in specific areas related to theatre. It goes without saying that professional theatre jobs require a specific set of skills, and listing them in a resume is critical to demonstrating to a hiring manager what you can bring to the table. In this section, we will discuss the importance of listing skills, types of skills to include, tips for emphasizing relevant skills, and examples of skills sections.

A. Importance of listing skills

The skill set of an individual is what sets them apart from other actors, writers, or directors. Listing your skills on a theatre resume can help potential employers identify key strengths that match the job requirements. This can translate to increased chances of being called for an audition, callback, or job interview.

B. Types of skills to include

There are several types of skills that you can list on a theatre resume, depending on the position you are applying for. Here are some examples:

Acting skills: There are several different acting skills to include, such as classical and contemporary techniques, improvisation, and vocal skills.
Technical skills: When it comes to technical skills, include anything related to designing and operating theatre equipment, such as lighting, sound, and set design.
Writing skills: If you are a writer, list skills relating to genre, style, and any specific scriptwriting techniques you specialize in.
Directing skills: For directors, include skills that showcase your directing style and experience with various theatre genres.

C. Tips for emphasizing relevant skills

When listing skills, try to focus on those that are most relevant to the job you are applying for. Use specific examples that highlight your experience with certain skills, such as a particular acting technique or a specific soundboard operation software. Also, be sure to use action verbs to describe your skills, such as “directed,” “performed,” or “created.”

D. Examples of Skills

Acting Skills:
- Classical and contemporary acting techniques
- Improvisation
- Voice projection and diction
- Character development
- Physicality and movement on stage
Technical Skills:
- Lighting design and operation
- Sound design and operation
- Set construction and carpentry
- Costume design and construction
- Stage management and organization
Writing Skills:
- Playwriting
- Script analysis
- Dialogue writing
- Storytelling and narrative structure
- Adaptation and creative writing
Directing Skills:
- Blocking and staging
- Casting and auditioning
- Rehearsal management
- Conceptualization and vision
- Collaboration with actors and designers

Remember to tailor the skills section to the specific job you are applying for. Highlight the skills that are most relevant and align with the requirements of the position. Use concise and specific language to describe your skills, and consider mentioning any certifications or training programs you have completed related to those skills.

Accomplishments and Awards

As a theatre professional, your accomplishments and awards are essential components of your resume. They demonstrate your expertise, hard work, and dedication to the craft. Here are some important points to consider when it comes to listing your accomplishments and awards:

A. Importance of Listing Accomplishments and Awards

Your achievements reflect your career success and competence, highlighting your ability to excel in your field. They offer concrete evidence of your skills, work ethic, and talent. Including your accomplishments and awards on your resume indicates to potential employers that you have a track record of outstanding work and are an asset to any production.

B. Choosing the Right Accomplishments and Awards to Include

Select only those accomplishments and awards that are most relevant to the position you are applying for. They should be recent, significant, and showcase your skills and experience. Avoid including outdated or irrelevant achievements that don’t add value to your application. For example, if you are applying for a directorial position, include awards for a successful production or rave reviews for your work, rather than awards or recognitions for acting.

C. Tips for Emphasizing Relevant Accomplishments and Awards

Highlight the most significant accomplishments and awards by placing them at the top of the section in bold or with a larger font. Use specific metrics, such as the number of productions you have directed or the percentage increase in ticket sales you were responsible for, to quantify your achievements.

D. Examples of Accomplishments and Awards Sections

EXAMPLE 1:

Directed over 15 productions, receiving rave reviews from both audiences and critics.
Increased ticket sales for “The Importance of Being Earnest” by 25% in a single season.
Received the 2019 Best Director award by The Musical Awards Society.

EXAMPLE 2:

Designed and executed the original set for “Into the Woods,” a production that garnered five star reviews.
Fabricated unique hand props and decors for more than ten productions.
Received the 2020 Outstanding Set Design award by The Tony Awards.

Highlighting your accomplishments and awards shows employers that you have proven successes in your career, making you an ideal candidate for the role. Use relevant, quantifiable achievements that demonstrate your competence and skill to make your application stand out in the competitive world of theatre.

References

As you complete your theatre resume, it is essential to include a references section. Including references adds credibility to your resume and provides potential employers with a list of individuals who can vouch for your skills and abilities.

When selecting who to include, it is important to choose individuals who can speak to your strengths in a theatre setting. This may include directors, producers, stage managers, or co-actors who have worked alongside you. Be sure to ask their permission before including their contact information on your resume.

Asking for references can feel awkward, but it is a common professional practice. Here are a few tips to help you ask effectively:

Ask in person or over the phone: While it may be tempting to send an email or text, having a personal conversation shows that you value their input.
Be specific: Let potential references know what job you are applying for and why you think they would be a good reference.
Confirm their contact information: Before including information on your resume, double-check that it is accurate and up-to-date.

Below are a few examples of reference sections to give you a better idea of how to format and organize your information:

Example 1:

Director John Smith 123-456-7890 [email protected]

Producer Jane Doe 123-456-7890 [email protected]

Example 2:

Stage Manager David Johnson 123-456-7890 [email protected]

Co-Actor Sarah Williams 123-456-7890 [email protected]

When it comes to your theatre resume, a references section is an important piece of the puzzle. Make sure to choose the right individuals, ask for permission, and confirm their contact information before adding to your resume.

In today’s digital age, having an online presence is crucial for professionals in any industry, especially for those in the theatre industry. An online presence not only helps you to establish your personal brand but also plays a significant role in helping you to network and find work opportunities.

A. Importance of maintaining a professional online presence

It’s essential to maintain a professional online presence to showcase your expertise and stand out from the competition. Potential employers and recruiters can research you online before deciding to work with you. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure your online presence reflects your professionalism and expertise.

Here are a few tips for maintaining a professional online presence:

Keep your social media profiles up-to-date and professional
Share content that is relevant to your industry
Avoid posting controversial or sensitive topics
Respond professionally to comments, messages, and reviews
Keep your personal and professional content separate

Optimizing your social media profiles is just as crucial as maintaining a professional online presence. Social media profiles can act as your digital resume and the first impression your potential employers will see. Therefore, it’s essential to optimize your profiles to make a strong first impression.

Here are a few tips for optimizing your social media profiles:

Use a professional profile picture that aligns with your personal brand
Include a bio that highlights your skills and expertise
Add relevant work experience, education, and awards
Use industry-related keywords to help employers find you online
Keep your profiles consistent across all social media platforms

Let’s take a look at some theatre professionals who have mastered the art of maintaining a professional and optimized online presence.

1. Lin-Manuel Miranda (@Lin_Manuel)

Twitter: twitter.com/Lin_Manuel
Instagram: instagram.com/lin_manuel

Lin-Manuel Miranda, renowned composer, lyricist, and actor, has built an impressive online presence. His social media profiles are filled with engaging content related to his theatrical projects, behind-the-scenes insights, and personal inspirations. Miranda consistently interacts with his audience, responding to comments and sharing updates on his latest ventures. His profiles exude creativity, professionalism, and authenticity, making him an excellent example of maintaining a strong online presence.

2. Marketa Fantova (@MarketaFantova)

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/marketafantova
YouTube: youtube.com/marketafantova

Marketa Fantova, a talented theatre director, has effectively utilized LinkedIn and YouTube to showcase her work and expertise. Her LinkedIn profile showcases her extensive professional background, including her directing credits and collaborations. On YouTube, Fantova shares insightful videos discussing various aspects of theatre production, providing valuable content for aspiring theatre professionals. Her profiles demonstrate a combination of professionalism and passion, attracting the attention of industry peers and potential collaborators.

3. Emma Thompson (@EmmaThompson)

Facebook: facebook.com/EmmaThompsonOfficial
Website: emmathompson.co.uk

Emma Thompson, a highly acclaimed actress and screenwriter, maintains a captivating online presence through her Facebook page and personal website. Her Facebook page offers a glimpse into her theatre-related activities, including upcoming performances and philanthropic endeavors. Thompson’s website serves as a comprehensive portfolio, showcasing her impressive body of work, awards, and reviews. Her online presence radiates elegance and professionalism, reflecting her illustrious career in the theatre industry.

These theatre professionals serve as excellent examples of how to maintain a professional and optimized online presence. By consistently sharing relevant content, engaging with their audience, and showcasing their expertise, they have successfully established themselves as influential figures within the theatre community.

Remember, in today’s digital landscape, your online presence can be a powerful tool for advancing your career and connecting with industry professionals. By following the tips mentioned earlier and drawing inspiration from these examples, you can elevate your online presence and unlock new opportunities in the dynamic world of theatre.

Final Tips and Common Mistakes

Congratulations! You’ve made it to the final section of our theatre resume writing guide. Here, we’ll provide some additional tips to help you create a standout theatre resume and identify some common mistakes that you should avoid. Additionally, we’ll provide some examples of poorly written resumes to give you a sense of what not to do.

A. Final Tips for Writing a Standout Theatre Resume

Be concise: Remember that your theatre resume is a marketing tool, so be sure to keep it concise and relevant. Avoid including too much information and focus on the details that will help you stand out as a performer.
Use keywords: When creating your theatre resume, be sure to include relevant keywords related to the type of performance you’re pursuing. This will help ensure that your resume is found by casting directors and other industry professionals.
Tailor your resume to the role: If you’re applying for a specific role, be sure to tailor your resume to the specific requirements of that role. Highlight your experience and skills that are most relevant to the position.
Include your contact information: It may seem obvious, but be sure to include your contact information on your theatre resume. This should include your phone number, email address, and website or social media profiles, if applicable.
Include a professional headshot: While not strictly necessary, including a professional headshot on your theatre resume can help casting directors remember your face and increase your chances of being called in for auditions.

B. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Too much information: As we mentioned above, it’s important to keep your theatre resume concise and relevant. Avoid including too much information that doesn’t directly relate to the role you’re pursuing.
Typos and errors: Make sure you proofread your resume carefully and avoid any typos or errors. These can make you appear unprofessional and decrease your chances of being considered for a role.
Irrelevant information: Only include information that is relevant to your career as a performer. Avoid including irrelevant personal information, such as your height, weight, or marital status.
Unprofessional formatting: Your theatre resume should be easy to read and visually appealing. Avoid using unsuitable fonts, colors, or design elements that distract from the information you’re trying to convey.

C. Examples of Poorly Written Resumes

Here are some examples of poorly written resumes that you should avoid:

Resumes that are too long and include irrelevant information
Resumes with typos and errors
Resumes with unprofessional formatting and design
Resumes that don’t include pertinent skills and experiences

By avoiding these common mistakes and following our tips for creating a standout theatre resume, you’ll increase your chances of landing the role of your dreams. Good luck!

Theatre Resume Writing Tips and Examples: Complete Guide