So, you’re ready to chase your dream and start auditioning — but there’s just one problem. Your acting résumé is… empty.
Don’t worry — every successful actor started exactly where you are. Building a résumé with little or no experience is absolutely possible (and actually easier than you might think). Here’s how to make your résumé look professional and casting-ready — even as a beginner.
1. Start With Your Basics
Even without credits, your résumé should clearly show who you are and what you bring.
At the top, include:
- Your name (big and bold)
- Contact info (email or your agent’s)
- Union status (Non-Union or SAG-AFTRA Eligible)
- Height, weight, hair, and eye color
- Your location (city or “Based in NYC / LA”)
These details show casting directors you’re organized and ready to work.
2. Add Acting Training and Workshops
If you don’t have stage or film credits yet, highlight your training. Acting classes, voice lessons, dance intensives, or college theatre — it all counts.
For example:
Acting Technique – The Barrow Group, Seth Barrish
Voice for the Actor – NYU Tisch, Karen Kohlhaas
Dance (Jazz, Ballet) – Broadway Dance Center
👉 Tip: Put your most recent and relevant training first. Casting directors value ongoing learning more than they care about big names at this stage.
3. Include Student Films, Short Films, and Community Theatre
You don’t need a Broadway contract to fill a résumé. Student projects, independent shorts, and local plays show initiative and real-world experience.
If you’ve helped a friend film a scene for school or performed in a small production, list it like this:
Role – Project Title – Director/School
Lead – “Autumn Rain” – NYFA Short Film
Supporting – “The Little Prince” – Local Theatre
Even unpaid work counts when you’re starting out.
4. Add “Special Skills” (and Make Them Count)
Your special skills section can set you apart. Include things casting directors might find useful — not random hobbies. Think:
- Dialects and languages
- Singing range
- Musical instruments
- Dance styles
- Athletic abilities (e.g., swimming, tumbling, stage combat)
👉 Pro Tip: Be honest. You will be asked to demonstrate these in the room.
5. Don’t Forget Professional Formatting
A clean résumé is just as important as impressive credits. Keep it one page, with clear sections:
Theatre | Film/TV | Training | Special Skills
Save it as a PDF and name it clearly (e.g., John.Lovetsky_ActingResume.pdf).
If you’re submitting online, pair it with a headshot that matches your type — friendly, approachable, and authentic.
6. Create Your Own Experience
Here’s a secret: You don’t have to wait for opportunities — you can create them.
Film short scenes with friends, perform in readings, or join small theatre festivals. Add them to your résumé once completed.
Every credit (even self-produced) shows you’re serious about your craft.
7. Keep Updating as You Grow
Your résumé will evolve quickly as you audition, take classes, and work on new projects. Review and update it regularly — and remember: progress, not perfection.
The most important thing is to start. Even a simple, honest résumé tells casting directors you’re proactive, organized, and ready to learn.
Final Thought
Every actor starts with “no experience.” What matters most is your commitment to keep building. With training, small projects, and consistent effort, your résumé will grow — and so will your confidence.
Start where you are. Use what you have. And audition boldly.
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