Back to School: Resumes 101

Welcome to the first entry of Stage Door Designs’ “Back to School” blog post series! Throughout the whole month of September, we’ll be going back to basics and taking a look at all of the essential things actors and performers should have in their toolkit. We don’t have to tell you that the performing arts industry is incredibly competitive. Little things like having a typo on your resume or handing in a slightly blurry headshot can make a huge difference in whether or not you book the job. So! With all that being said, today we are taking a look at the most basic tool that every performer needs: a resume.

A resume is something every performer should have. Whether you are just starting your career or are a seasoned veteran of the stage and screen, it is vital to keep your resume up to date. Many of our clients who are just starting out are often unsure of what to put on their resume. If you are just beginning as an actor, you might not have many credits to speak of. That’s okay! Resumes are meant to grow, so don’t feel embarrassed if yours starts out on the shorter side. Our advice is to try and find as many things as possible that may be applicable to your performing resume. Even if you haven’t been on Broadway or booked a Netflix original, there are plenty of smaller performances that qualify for being listed on your resume. For the younger set … think about this: if you have ever performed in a cabaret or school talent show, that’s a great start! You should also seek out workshops or training intensives in your area. These are valuable as not only are they great training, but usually they feature a showcase at the end that can be used as a performance credit on your resume!

A resume should have the following information about you:

1. Your name (obviously)
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2. Your union status

3. Your “stats”. This means things like your height, hair and eye color, age range, etc. If you are a singer, add your vocal range too!

4. Your representation and contact info. If you have an agent or manager, list them first. If not, list your personal name and phone number

5. Your credits! This is the main part of your resume where you list all of your experience. Credits should be segmented into categories such as Theatre, Film, TV, Voiceover, etc.

6. Any training you have received! After your credits, be sure to list all of the teachers, classes, workshops, and schools you have learned from. Pro tip: It’s always a good idea to separate ongoing training from one time workshops too!

7. Finally, end your resume with a list of special skills and abilities. This is where you can inform Casting about other abilities you have. You can list things such as sports and athletic abilities, languages, accents, vocal styles, hobbies, and anything else that makes you unique! If you are under 18, here’s the place to note that you have a work permit!

While you should try to find as much as you can to list on your resume, be sure to be accurate. As we said before a resume is meant to grow, so under NO circumstances should you list false experience on yours. Casting directors will sniff these things out, and lying on your resume will certainly not improve your chances of booking the job.

Lastly, please reach out to us if you need any help building or editing your resume! We know how overwhelming maintaining your acting toolkit can be, and that is why we are here to help! Click here to schedule a free 15 minute consult, and join us next week for another 101 blog post! We’ll be discussing all the basics of representation!