A performance resume is more than a list of jobs—it's a personal showcase of your talent, training, and stage experience. Whether you're an actor, dancer, voice artist, or entertainer, your document needs to capture your versatility and presence with clarity and flair.
In this guide, we’ll walk through how to structure your performer resume, what details casting directors care about most, and how to tailor it for different disciplines. With the right format and tone, it can open doors to your next big audition.
Performance resume examples
Stage performance resume sample
Stage performance resume template
Resume for stage performance | Plain text
Ava Richmond
Los Angeles, CA | ava.richmond@email.com | (323) 555-8721 | www.avarichmondactor.comSummary
Screen and stage actress with experience delivering emotionally complex performances across television, film, and live theatre. Recognized for exceptional range, versatility in accents, and strong stage presence. SAG-AFTRA member with credits in national ad campaigns, Netflix thrillers, and award-winning off-Broadway productions. Skilled in fast memorization, on-set adaptability, and collaborative ensemble work.
Skills
- Method acting
- Dialects: British RP, Southern US
- Stage combat
- Improvisation
- Cold reading
- Script analysis
- Voice projection
- On-camera techniques
- Collaboration
- Adaptability
Experience
Netflix – Supporting Role, “Until Dusk”
Los Angeles, CA | 2025
- Cast as the emotionally conflicted sister of the lead character in a psychological thriller spanning six episodes, contributing to the show’s rising viewership on streaming platforms.
- Collaborated with award-winning director Karen Lee to explore the nuanced backstory of the character and deliver impactful scenes through close-up cinematography and subtle expressions.
- Performed emotionally intense monologues under tight filming schedules while maintaining continuity between scenes across various shooting days.
- Participated in a press campaign that included virtual Q&As, panel interviews, and a featured article in Variety highlighting her standout performance.
The Public Theater – Juliet, “Romeo and Juliet”
New York, NY | 2024
- Headlined a contemporary adaptation of Shakespeare's tragedy, performing before sold-out audiences throughout a ten-week run in New York.
- Attended daily six-hour rehearsals to develop chemistry with cast members and refine timing, diction, and stage blocking under the direction of Carla Rivera.
- Managed physically demanding performances that combined classical acting with modern dance, incorporating live music and minimalistic sets.
- Organized post-performance discussions with local student groups to promote arts engagement and deepen audience understanding of Shakespearean drama.
Education
BFA in Acting
New York University, Tisch School of the Arts | New York, NY | 2017Certifications
- Advanced Stage Combat (2024)
- On-Camera Intensive (UCB LA, 2024)
Additional Information
- SAG-AFTRA member since 2020
- Fluent in English and conversational Spanish
- Reels, headshots, and audition tapes available at portfolio link above
Strong sides of this performer resume:
- Uses vivid, role-specific action verbs and rich detail in the experience section to illustrate professional impact.
- Clean, easy-to-read structure with consistent formatting across all sections.
- Includes a strong digital portfolio link and union membership, adding credibility.
How to format a performer resume
- Choose a classic font like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman in 10–12 pt size.
- Keep the resume length to a single page, especially for early-career performers.
- Set 1-inch margins on all sides for a tidy and balanced appearance.
- Maintain consistent spacing between items—add single line and extra space between parts.
- Align all content to the left, reserving centered text for your name at the top if desired.
- Arrange credits in reverse chronological order within each block (Theater, TV, etc.).
- Employ clear resume section headers in bold or all caps to divide areas visually.
- Save your document as a PDF to preserve layout across different systems.
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Musical performance resume example
Sample musical performance resume
Jordan Ellis
Chicago, IL | jordan.ellis@email.com | (312) 555-9013 | www.jordanellismusic.comSummary
Dynamic guitarist and experienced studio musician with professional background in live shows, commercial recording, and composition. Known for blending technical precision with improvisational creativity, delivering consistent performances across jazz, rock, and acoustic genres. Adept at working under pressure in fast-paced studio environments and collaborating with producers and artists to elevate the musical quality of every track.
Skills
- Electric & acoustic guitar
- Jazz improvisation
- Music theory
- Studio recording (Logic Pro, Pro Tools)
- Sight reading
- Arranging for ensemble
- Live sound equipment
- Stage presence
- Punctuality
- Communication
Experience
Chicago Symphony Orchestra – Guest Musician, “Fusion Series”
Chicago, IL | 2025
- Invited to play lead guitar in an experimental series blending classical and contemporary styles, participating in the arrangement and execution of complex crossover pieces.
- Worked closely with renowned conductor Mark Davies and composer Mia Hart to ensure seamless transitions between orchestral and solo sections, enhancing audience engagement.
- Contributed to five back-to-back sold-out performances, with over 2,000 attendees per night, and was featured in post-concert interviews published in Chicago Tribune.
- Praised for musical versatility and the ability to bridge genres through refined tone control and responsive on-stage coordination.
Studio Voltage – Freelance Session Guitarist
Nashville, TN | 2023–2024
- Served as a first-call guitarist for multiple indie, pop, and country artists, delivering polished tracks for over 30 commercial releases and digital albums.
- Provided creative input on song structure, chord progression, and instrumentation to enhance overall musicality during pre-production meetings.
- Maintained a fast-paced weekly recording schedule while ensuring consistent quality, often completing custom solos or rhythm parts within tight client deadlines.
- Built a strong reputation within the Nashville studio scene for dependability, clear communication, and intuitive musical phrasing that aligned with diverse artist visions.
Education
Bachelor of Music in Performance
Berklee College of Music | Boston, MA | 2015Certifications
- Pro Tools Certification (2024)
- CPR & First Aid Certified for touring (valid through 2026)
Additional Information
- Endorsed by Fender since 2022
- Performs with touring act “Northern Kin” (folk rock)
- Published 2 instructional books on advanced guitar techniques
Why this example of a performer resume will impress the HRs:
- Clearly highlights technical and creative skills with balance across studio and live experience.
- Summaries and bullet points are tailored to the music industry, using relevant terms.
- Lists specific tools and certifications that validate modern studio competence.
Should I choose a performance resume objective or summary?
- Ideal for seasoned performers with a solid portfolio.
- It's typically 2–3 sentences and should capture your expertise, strengths, and style in a concise snapshot.
Performance resume summary sample:
Dynamic stage and screen actor with 6+ years of experience in regional theater, commercials, and indie film. Trained in classical and improvisational techniques. Known for expressive range and bilingual fluency in English and Spanish.
- Works best for newcomers or those making a shift in performance focus (e.g., dancer turning to acting).
- It states what you aim to achieve, what are your career goals and what qualities you bring to the table.
Performance resume objective example:
Emerging theater performer eager to contribute vocal and physical skills in dramatic and ensemble productions. Dedicated to growth through collaborative storytelling and training.
How to showcase your performance resume skills
The skills section of resume is a valuable opportunity to demonstrate what sets you apart.
- Hard skills refer to specific techniques or disciplines, such as ballet, stage fighting, or vocal range.
- Soft skills relate to interpersonal strengths and traits, like adaptability or memorization.
Performance hard skills:
- Stage combat
- Ballet
- Jazz dance
- Musical theater
- Voiceover
- Dialect work (e.g., British RP)
- Piano performance
- Singing (soprano, alto, tenor, etc.)
- Puppetry
- Physical comedy
- Acrobatics
- Mime
- Improvisation
- Meisner technique
- Motion capture
Soft skills for performance:
- Adaptability
- Teamwork
- Creativity
- Strong memory
- Communication
- Confidence
- Emotional intelligence
- Listening skills
- Self-discipline
- Resilience
- Time management
- Receptiveness to feedback
- Presence
- Focus
- Versatility
Dancing performance resume template
Dancing performance resume sample
Resume for dancing performance | Text version
Sofia Delgado
Miami, FL | sofia.delgado@email.com | (786) 555-2444 | www.sofiadelgadodance.comSummary
Emotionally expressive and technically disciplined dancer with experience performing in professional ballet and contemporary productions. Trained at Juilliard with a strong foundation in classical techniques and modern improvisational forms. Known for fluid movement, storytelling ability, and on-stage adaptability. Actively seeks collaborative, innovative projects in live theater, touring shows, and filmed dance media.
Skills
- Contemporary dance
- Ballet (Vaganova & RAD)
- Choreography
- Pointe work
- Flexibility training
- Floor work
- Partnering
- Expression through movement
- Teaching technique
- Discipline
Experience
Miami City Ballet – Corps de Ballet Dancer
Miami, FL | 2020–2025
- Participated in 50+ annual performances, including seasonal classics and modern commissions, while maintaining elite physical readiness through rigorous daily training.
- Traveled internationally with the company for cultural exchange performances in Spain and Germany, representing American dance on global stages.
- Performed demanding solo and ensemble parts in “Swan Lake” and “The Nutcracker,” adjusting to last-minute casting changes and live orchestra cues.
- Provided peer mentorship to junior company members and contributed feedback during choreographic workshops.
Cirque du Soleil – Dancer, “Volta” Tour
Las Vegas, NV & touring | 2018–2019
- Selected through international auditions to join the ensemble for “Volta,” a physically demanding show combining modern dance, acrobatics, and narrative performance.
- Mastered aerial silks, trampoline choreography, and harness-based movement within a compressed training schedule before joining the tour.
- Maintained health and endurance during extended global tour legs, executing complex routines in varying climates and venue conditions.
- Collaborated with creative directors, costume designers, and lighting technicians to deliver immersive visual experiences to thousands of audience members.
Education
Diploma in Dance Performance
The Juilliard School | New York, NY | 2017Certifications
- Pilates Instructor Certification (2023)
- Yoga Alliance RYT-200 (2022)
Additional Information
- Speaks fluent English and Portuguese
- Hosts annual summer dance intensive for teens in Miami
- Appeared in music video for Bad Bunny (2024)
This sample performer resume is effective for several reasons:
- Offers detailed examples of physical and artistic challenges overcome in high-profile productions.
- Combines performance, touring, and teaching experience for a versatile profile.
- Strong education reinforces formal training and fitness credentials.
Education of a performer resume
The education section in resume helps industry professionals understand your background, the level of instruction you've received, and any specialized training that shapes your skillset.
Structure:
- Full name of the degree or program
- Name of the institution or studio
- Location (City, State)
- Dates attended or graduation year
- Notable instructors or techniques (optional)
- Relevant coursework (optional)
Experience section in a performance resume
- Break down credits by category: Theater, Film, TV, Voiceover, etc.
- Use the standard format: Role – Production – Director – Theater/Company – Year.
- List most recent jobs first in reverse chronological order within each category.
- Employ industry language and omit unimportant details.
- Include notable directors, venues, or awards to boost credibility.
- Keep formatting consistent across all entries for a clean look.
Conclusion
Your performer resume is your first impression in a competitive sphere. It should highlight your unique skills, training, and experience in a clean, concise, and engaging way.
By using a clear layout, tailoring each document for the role you're applying to, and showcasing your professional qualities up front, you position yourself for success in auditions and callbacks.
Remember, it is a living document—update it regularly as your credits and skills grow. With the right strategy, your resume won’t just get read—it’ll get remembered.
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