19 Theater Resume Examples

The world of theater is as diverse as it is dynamic, offering a myriad of roles both on and off stage. Whether you're an aspiring actor, a seasoned director, or a skilled technician, your theatre resume is your ticket to the next big opportunity. This comprehensive guide showcases a variety of theater resume examples tailored to different experience levels and specializations, followed by guidance on writing your own resume. Let's raise the curtain on your career with these stellar theatre resume examples and tips.

Entry-Level Theater Resume Examples

New Graduate Theater Resume

Fresh out of drama school? This new graduate theater resume example showcases how to highlight your education and relevant coursework while emphasizing any practical experience you've gained.

Aspiring Actor Resume

For those just starting their acting journey, this aspiring actor resume example demonstrates how to showcase your potential even with limited professional experience.

Theater Intern Resume

Internships are a great way to gain experience in the theater world. This theater intern resume example shows how to present your eagerness to learn and contribute in various aspects of theater production.

Community Theater Participant Resume

Community theater is a great starting point for many theater enthusiasts. This community theater participant resume example demonstrates how to showcase your passion and experience gained through local productions.

Mid-Level Theater Resume Examples

Experienced Actor Resume

For actors with a solid track record, this experienced actor resume example demonstrates how to effectively showcase your range of roles and professional achievements.

Stage Manager Resume

Stage managers are the backbone of any theatrical production. This stage manager resume example highlights the organizational and leadership skills essential for this crucial role.

Theater Director Resume

Directing requires a unique blend of creative vision and practical skills. This theatre director resume example demonstrates how to showcase your directorial achievements and artistic philosophy.

Costume Designer Resume

Costume designers play a crucial role in bringing characters to life visually. This costume designer resume example shows how to present your creative portfolio and technical skills.

Set Designer Resume

Set designers create the visual world of a production. This set designer resume example illustrates how to showcase your artistic vision and technical expertise.

Senior-Level Theater Resume Examples

Broadway Actor Resume

For actors who have reached the pinnacle of stage performance, this broadway actor resume example demonstrates how to showcase your Broadway credits and accolades.

Theater Company Artistic Director Resume

As the creative leader of a theater company, an Artistic Director's resume should reflect both artistic vision and managerial acumen. This example demonstrates how to balance these crucial elements.

Theater Producer Resume

Theater producers are the driving force behind bringing productions to life. This resume example showcases how to highlight your ability to manage both the creative and business aspects of theater production.

Drama Teacher Resume

Drama teachers play a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of theater professionals. This drama teacher resume example demonstrates how to showcase your educational expertise alongside your theater experience.

Playwright Resume

Playwrights are the creative force behind theatrical storytelling. This playwright resume example illustrates how to showcase your writing accomplishments and artistic vision.

Specialized Theater Resume Examples

Musical Theater Performer Resume

Musical theater demands a unique combination of acting, singing, and dancing skills. This musical theater resume example demonstrates how to showcase your triple-threat talents effectively.

Shakespearean Actor Resume

Specializing in Shakespeare requires a unique set of skills and experiences. This Shakespearean actor resume example illustrates how to highlight your classical training and performances effectively.

Improv Comedian Resume

Improv comedy requires quick thinking and adaptability. This improv comedian resume example shows how to highlight your comedic skills and experiences in both long-form and short-form improv.

Voice Actor Resume

Voice acting is a unique niche in the theater world. This voice actor resume example illustrates how to showcase your vocal versatility and recording experience.

Theater Technician Resume

Theater technicians are the unsung heroes behind every successful production. This theater technician resume example demonstrates how to highlight your technical skills and experience in various aspects of theater production.

How to Write a Theater Resume

Theater Resume Outline

A well-structured theater resume is crucial for making a strong first impression. Here's a recommended outline for your theater resume:

1. Contact Information: Name, phone number, email, location (city/state)
2. Professional Summary or Resume Objective: A brief statement highlighting your key skills and career goals
3. Physical Characteristics (for actors): Height, weight, hair color, eye color
4. Theater Experience: List your roles, productions, theater companies, and dates
5. Film/TV Experience (if applicable): List your roles, projects, and production companies
6. Training/Education: Relevant degrees, workshops, and specialized training
7. Skills: Highlight relevant skills such as accents, dance styles, musical instruments, etc.
8. Awards/Honors: Any recognition you've received for your work
9. Special Skills: Additional talents that might set you apart
10. Union Affiliations: List any relevant union memberships
11. References: "Available upon request" is standard

Remember, the order and emphasis of these sections may vary depending on your specific role in theater and level of experience.

Which Resume Layout Should a Theater Professional Use

The layout of your theater resume should be clean, professional, and easy to read. Here are some guidelines:

• Use a standard, readable font like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman, size 10-12 pt
• Keep your resume to one page, unless you have extensive experience
• Use bold or italics sparingly to highlight important information
• Align text to the left for easier reading
• Use bullet points to list skills and achievements
• Include plenty of white space to make the resume visually appealing

For actors, a slightly different format is often used:

• Name should be prominently displayed at the top
• Contact information and union affiliations typically go at the bottom
• Theater credits are usually listed in two columns to save space

For other theater professionals (directors, technicians, etc.), a more traditional business resume format is appropriate.

What Your Theater Resume Header Should Include

Your theater resume header is the first thing a casting director or potential employer will see. It should include:

• Your full name (in a larger font size)
• Phone number
• Email address (use a professional email, not a quirky one)
• Location (city and state is sufficient, no need for full address)
• Website or online portfolio link (if applicable)

For actors, you might also include:

• Union affiliations (e.g., AEA, SAG-AFTRA)
• Agent's contact information (if you have representation)

Theater Resume Header Examples

What Your Theater Resume Summary Should Include

A strong theater resume summary or objective statement can quickly capture the attention of casting directors or potential employers. It should:

• Highlight your most relevant skills and experiences
• Indicate your career goals or the type of role you're seeking
• Be concise, ideally 2-3 sentences
• Be tailored to the specific job or role you're applying for

For early career professionals, an objective statement focusing on your goals and what you can offer might be more appropriate. For those with more experience, a summary showcasing your key achievements and skills is often more effective.

Theater Resume Summary Examples

What Are the Most Common Theater Responsibilities

Theater is a collaborative art form with a wide range of roles, each with its own set of responsibilities. Here are some common responsibilities for various theater professions:

Actors:

• Memorize lines and blocking
• Develop and maintain character
• Attend rehearsals and performances
• Collaborate with directors and fellow actors
• Maintain vocal and physical health

Directors:

• Interpret and visualize the script
• Cast actors and lead rehearsals
• Collaborate with designers and technical staff
• Make artistic decisions about staging, pacing, and tone
• Ensure cohesion of all production elements

Stage Managers:

• Coordinate all aspects of production
• Create and distribute daily schedules and reports
• Call cues during performances
• Maintain the artistic integrity of the show
• Manage communication between all departments

Technicians (Lighting, Sound, Set):

• Design and implement technical aspects of production
• Operate and maintain equipment
• Collaborate with directors and designers
• Troubleshoot technical issues
• Ensure safety protocols are followed

Costume Designers:

• Design costumes that reflect characters and setting
• Create sketches and source materials
• Oversee costume construction and fittings
• Manage costume budget
• Collaborate with directors and other designers

Playwrights:

• Develop original scripts or adapt existing works
• Revise and refine scripts based on feedback
• Collaborate with directors and dramaturgs
• Participate in workshops and readings
• Negotiate rights and contracts for productions

Remember, in theater, flexibility and collaboration are key. Many professionals, especially in smaller productions, may take on multiple roles or assist in areas outside their primary responsibility.

What Your Theater Resume Experience Should Include

Your theater resume experience section should effectively showcase your relevant work history and achievements. Here's what to include:

• Production Name: List the title of the play, musical, or project
• Your Role: Specify your position or character name
• Company/Theater: Include the name of the theater company or venue
• Location: City and state where the production took place
• Dates: Month and year of the production run
• Notable Directors or Co-stars: If relevant and impressive
• Achievements: Awards, critical acclaim, or other notable successes

For non-performance roles, you might also include:

• Key Responsibilities: Brief bullet points of your main duties
• Notable Projects: Highlight significant productions or initiatives
• Quantifiable Achievements: E.g., "Increased ticket sales by 25%"

List your experiences in reverse chronological order, with the most recent at the top. For actors, it's common to categorize experiences by medium (Theater, Film, TV) and then by type of production (Broadway, Off-Broadway, Regional, etc.).

Theater Resume Experience Examples

How Do I Create a Theater Resume Without Experience?

Creating a theater resume without extensive professional experience can be challenging, but it's not impossible. Here are some strategies to help you craft an effective resume:

• Emphasize Your Training: List any relevant classes, workshops, or degree programs you've completed. Include notable instructors or institutions.
• Highlight School Productions: If you're a recent graduate or student, include roles in school plays or showcases.
• Include Community Theater: Any roles or work in community theater productions can demonstrate your passion and commitment.
• Showcase Relevant Skills: List skills that are applicable to theater work, such as public speaking, dance, singing, or technical abilities.
• Include Related Non-Theater Experience: Jobs that involve teamwork, creativity, or public interaction can be relevant.
• Volunteer Work: Include any volunteer work in theaters or arts organizations.
• Special Skills: List any unique talents that might set you apart (e.g., juggling, martial arts, musical instruments).
• Write a Strong Objective Statement: Use this to express your passion for theater and your career goals.

Remember, everyone starts somewhere. Focus on showcasing your potential, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn.

What's the best education for a theater resume?

The best education for a theater resume can vary depending on your specific role in theater. However, here are some general guidelines:

• Actors: A Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Acting or Theater is common. Many also pursue Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degrees. Prestigious conservatory programs are highly regarded.
• Directors: A BFA or MFA in Directing is ideal. Degrees in Theater Studies or Dramatic Literature can also be beneficial.
• Playwrights: MFA programs in Playwriting are highly respected. Degrees in Creative Writing or English can also be relevant.
• Stage Managers: Degrees in Stage Management, Technical Theater, or Theater Production are common. Some pursue Business Management degrees.
• Designers (Set, Costume, Lighting): BFA or MFA programs in their specific design field are ideal. Art or Architecture degrees can also be relevant.
• Technicians: Degrees in Technical Theater or specific areas like Sound Design or Lighting Technology are beneficial.

In addition to formal degrees, include any relevant workshops, masterclasses, or specialized training programs you've completed. For many theater roles, practical experience can be just as important as formal education, so be sure to highlight both on your resume.

What's the best professional organization for a theater resume?

Including memberships in professional organizations on your theater resume can demonstrate your commitment to the field and provide networking opportunities. Here are some respected organizations for various theater professions:

• Actors:
  • Actors' Equity Association (AEA)
  • Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA)
  • British Actors' Equity Association (for UK)
• Directors and Choreographers:
  • Stage Directors and Choreographers Society (SDC)
  • League of Professional Theatre Women
• Playwrights:
  • Dramatists Guild of America
  • Theatre Communications Group (TCG)
• Stage Managers:
  • Stage Managers' Association (SMA)
• Designers and Technicians:
  • United Scenic Artists (USA) Local 829
  • International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE)
• All Theater Professionals:
  • Theatre Communications Group (TCG)
  • International Theatre Institute (ITI)
  • United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT)

Remember, while membership in these organizations can be beneficial, it's not always necessary, especially for early-career professionals. Focus on organizations that are most relevant to your specific area of theater and career goals.

What are the best awards for a theater resume?

Awards can significantly enhance your theater resume by providing external validation of your skills and achievements. The most prestigious awards vary depending on your specific role in theater. Here are some notable awards for different theater professions:

Actors, Directors, and Playwrights:

• Tony Awards (for Broadway productions)
• Drama Desk Awards
• Obie Awards (for Off-Broadway and Off-Off-Broadway)
• Theatre World Award (for outstanding debut performances)
• Olivier Awards (for London theater)
• Pulitzer Prize for Drama (primarily for playwrights)

Designers (Set, Costume, Lighting, Sound):

• Tony Awards in respective design categories
• Drama Desk Awards in design categories
• Henry Hewes Design Awards

Regional Theater Awards:

• Jeff Awards (Chicago)
• Helen Hayes Awards (Washington D.C.)
• Elliot Norton Awards (Boston)
• Barrymore Awards (Philadelphia)

Other Notable Awards:

• MacArthur "Genius" Grant
• Kennedy Center Honors
• National Medal of Arts

For early-career professionals, don't overlook the value of including awards from drama schools, universities, or local theater competitions. These can also demonstrate your talent and potential to employers or casting directors.

What are good volunteer opportunities for a theater resume?

Volunteer work can be a great addition to your theater resume, especially if you're early in your career or looking to gain experience in a new area of theater. Here are some valuable volunteer opportunities for theater professionals:

• Community Theater: Many community theaters rely on volunteers for various roles, from acting to technical support.
• Theater Education Programs: Assist in after-school drama programs or summer camps for children and teens.
• Theater Festivals: Volunteer at local, regional, or national theater festivals in various capacities.
• Usher or Front-of-House: This can provide exposure to professional theater environments and networking opportunities.
• Nonprofit Theater Companies: Many small theater companies welcome volunteers for both creative and administrative tasks.
• Drama Therapy Programs: Volunteer with organizations that use theater techniques for therapeutic purposes.
• Theater Restoration Projects: Help restore historic theaters, combining theater interest with community service.
• Playwriting Workshops: Volunteer to read or perform in developmental workshops for new plays.
• Theater Outreach Programs: Participate in programs that bring theater to underserved communities or schools.
• Technical Theater Support: Offer your skills in lighting, sound, or set construction to smaller theaters or community events.

When listing volunteer work on your resume, focus on experiences most relevant to your theater career goals. Describe your role and any significant contributions or skills you developed through the experience.

What are the best hard skills to add to a theater resume?

Hard skills are specific, teachable abilities that can be defined and measured. In theater, these skills often vary depending on your specific role. Here are some valuable hard skills for different theater professions:

Actors:

• Vocal techniques (e.g., projection, accents, dialects)
• Dance styles (e.g., ballet, jazz, tap)
• Stage combat
• Sight reading
• Improvisation techniques
• Musical instruments

Directors:

• Blocking techniques
• Script analysis
• Casting processes
• Production management
• Budgeting

Stage Managers:

• Cue calling
• Production scheduling
• Technical drawing reading
• First aid and safety procedures
• Proficiency in stage management software (e.g., Virtual Callboard, Propared)

Designers (Set, Costume, Lighting):

• CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, Vectorworks)
• 3D modeling software (e.g., SketchUp, Rhino)
• Rendering techniques
• Drafting
• Sewing and pattern-making (for costume designers)
• Lighting console programming

Technicians:

• Equipment operation (e.g., lighting boards, sound mixers)
• Rigging
• Carpentry
• Electrical work
• Welding
• Audio engineering

Playwrights:

• Dramatic structure techniques
• Scriptwriting software (e.g., Final Draft, Celtx)
• Research methodologies
• Adaptation techniques

Remember to tailor these skills to your specific experiences and the requirements of the job you're applying for. It's also beneficial to include any relevant software proficiencies, as technology is increasingly important in many aspects of theater production.

What are the best soft skills to add to a theater resume?

Soft skills are personal attributes that enable someone to interact effectively with others. In the collaborative world of theater, these skills are crucial. Here are some valuable soft skills for theater professionals:

• Collaboration: The ability to work effectively in a team is essential in theater.
• Communication: Clear and effective communication is vital, whether you're an actor delivering lines or a director giving notes.
• Creativity: The ability to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions is prized in all theater roles.
• Adaptability: Theater is unpredictable, and the ability to adjust to changes quickly is crucial.
• Time Management: Meeting rehearsal schedules and production deadlines is a key part of theater work.
• Emotional Intelligence: Understanding and managing emotions (your own and others') is important in the high-pressure environment of theater.
• Problem-Solving: The ability to troubleshoot issues quickly and effectively is valuable in all theater roles.
• Leadership: Even in non-directorial roles, the ability to take initiative and guide others can be important.
• Attention to Detail: Whether you're an actor remembering lines or a technician setting up equipment, precision is key.
• Stress Management: The ability to perform well under pressure is crucial in live theater.
• Active Listening: Being fully engaged and responsive in interactions is important for all theater professionals.
• Empathy: Understanding and sharing the feelings of others is crucial for actors and helpful in all collaborative work.
• Cultural Awareness: An understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures can enhance creativity and collaboration in theater.

When adding soft skills to your resume, it's best to demonstrate them through your experiences rather than simply listing them. For example, instead of just saying "Good communicator," you might mention how you "Facilitated clear communication between design and technical teams, ensuring smooth production processes."

What are the best certifications for a theater resume?

While formal certifications are not as common in theater as in some other fields, there are several certifications and specialized training programs that can enhance your resume. The most valuable certifications depend on your specific role in theater. Here are some noteworthy certifications for various theater professions:

Actors:

• Society of American Fight Directors (SAFD) certifications in stage combat
• Certifications in specific acting methods (e.g., Meisner Technique, Stanislavski System)
• Voice-over or commercial acting certifications
• Specialized dance certifications (e.g., from the Royal Academy of Dance)

Stage Managers and Technicians:

• OSHA Safety Certification
• First Aid and CPR Certification
• Entertainment Technician Certification Program (ETCP) certifications:
  • Rigger - Theatre
  • Rigger - Arena
  • Entertainment Electrician
• USITT eSET (Essential Skills for Entertainment Technicians) Certificate

Designers:

• Software certifications (e.g., AutoCAD, Vectorworks, SketchUp)
• Certified Entertainment Electrician (CEE) for lighting designers

Theater Educators:

• State teaching certifications
• Drama therapy certifications (e.g., from the North American Drama Therapy Association)

All Theater Professionals:

• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) training certifications
• Mental Health First Aid certification

Remember, while certifications can be valuable, they're not always necessary. In theater, practical experience and demonstrated skills often carry more weight. However, certifications can be particularly useful if you're transitioning into a new area of theater or want to demonstrate expertise in a specific skill.

How Long Should I Make My Theater Resume?

The resume length for a theater resume can vary depending on your specific role and level of experience, but generally, the goal is to keep it concise and impactful. Here are some guidelines:

• Actors: Stick to one page. This is a strict rule in the acting world, regardless of your experience level. If you have extensive credits, be selective and include only the most impressive or relevant ones.
• Directors, Designers, and Technicians: One page is ideal, especially for early to mid-career professionals. If you have significant experience (10+ years) or numerous awards and notable projects, two pages may be acceptable.
• Playwrights: One to two pages, depending on the number of produced works and other relevant experiences.

Remember, quality is more important than quantity. It's better to have a concise, well-curated resume that highlights your best and most relevant work than a longer resume that includes less significant experiences.

If you're struggling to fit everything on one page, consider these strategies:

• Use a smaller font size (but not smaller than 10pt)
• Adjust margins (but keep them at least 0.5 inches)
• Be more selective about what you include
• Use concise language and avoid unnecessary words

Ultimately, your resume should be long enough to showcase your relevant skills and experiences, but short enough to be quickly and easily digested by busy casting directors or potential employers.

What's the Best Format for a Theater Resume?

The best format for a theater resume can vary depending on your specific role in the industry. However, there are some general guidelines and standards to follow:

For Actors:

• Use a standard 8.5" x 11" page
• Place your name in a larger font at the top center of the page
• List your union affiliations (if any) directly under your name
• Include your physical characteristics (height, weight, hair color, eye color) near the top
• Organize your credits by medium (Theater, Film, Television) and then by category (Broadway, Off-Broadway, Regional, etc.)
• Use two columns for your credits to maximize space
• Place contact information (or your agent's information) at the bottom of the page

For Directors, Designers, and Technicians:

• Use a more traditional resume format
• Start with your contact information at the top
• Include a brief professional summary or objective statement
• List your experience in reverse chronological order
• Use bullet points to describe key responsibilities and achievements
• Include sections for Education, Skills, and Awards/Honors

For All Theater Resumes:

• Use a clean, easy-to-read font (like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman) in 10-12 point size
• Maintain consistent formatting throughout the document
• Use bold or italics sparingly to highlight important information
• Save and send your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting

Remember, while these are general guidelines, it's always a good idea to research the specific preferences of the theater companies or casting directors you're submitting to, as they may have their own format requirements.

What Should the Focus of a Theater Resume Be?

The focus of your theater resume should be on showcasing your most relevant skills, experiences, and achievements for the specific role or position you're seeking. However, the emphasis may vary depending on your area of expertise within the theater world:

Actors:

• Highlight your most prestigious or relevant roles
• Showcase the range of your abilities (different types of roles you've played)
• Emphasize any special skills that set you apart (accents, dance abilities, musical talents)

Directors:

• Focus on successful productions you've directed
• Highlight your experience with different types of theater or specific playwrights
• Emphasize any awards or critical acclaim your productions have received

Designers (Set, Costume, Lighting):

• Showcase your most impressive or innovative designs
• Highlight experience with different styles or periods
• Emphasize technical skills and software proficiencies

Stage Managers:

• Focus on your experience managing complex productions
• Highlight your organizational and problem-solving skills
• Emphasize your ability to work with diverse teams

Technicians:

• Showcase your technical skills and equipment proficiencies
• Highlight experience with different types of productions or venues
• Emphasize any specialized training or certifications

Playwrights:

• Focus on produced works and any awards or recognition received
• Highlight any residencies or fellowships
• Emphasize your unique voice or style as a writer

Regardless of your specific role, your theater resume should focus on demonstrating your expertise, experience, and unique value in your field. It should give the reader a clear picture of your capabilities and achievements in the theater world.

Conclusion

Crafting an effective theater resume is an art in itself, requiring a delicate balance of industry-specific knowledge and general resume best practices. Whether you're an actor, director, designer, or technician, your resume serves as your calling card in the competitive world of theater. To start building your theater resume, sign up for Huntr today.