how to write a cover letter for acting

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Acting Cover Letter Examples—2024 Guide & Templates to Fill

Roll out the red carpet for the best acting cover letter guide out there! These examples and templates will help you land gigs that will fulfill your heart.

“Write a cover letter,” they said. “It’ll be worth it,” they said. Well, it certainly is worth it—take it from the most experienced career experts out there. But how to write one that will actually benefit you? One that will make the effort "worth it?"

Here’s a piece of good news: You’re about to see the best acting cover letter examples, and… learn how to write your own. So fasten your seatbelts, it’s going to be an exciting ride.

In this guide you'll find:

• Two acting cover letters: for experienced and beginner actors.
• The steps of how to write a cover letter for acting jobs.
• An actor cover letter template you can copy, fill in with your own information, and have ready in 15 minutes.

Save hours of work and get a cover letter like this. Pick a template, fill it in. Quick and easy. Choose from 18+ cover letter templates and download your cover letter now.

Create your cover letter now

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Before we move on to learning what to include on a cover letter , let’s take a look at two great cover letter examples:

1. Acting Cover Letter Examples

First, let’s see how Alice, a professional voice over actress, crafts an impressive acting cover letter. 

Alice is applying for a voice actor position at a video game production company. She hasn’t really done voice acting for video games before, but she has a lot of other relevant skills and experience that she perfectly leverages. Here’s how she does it:

Example #1: Acting Cover Letter to Casting Director

Alice Ferris

Professional Voice Actress

3574 Tator Patch Road

Chicago, IL 60610

312-944-2078

[email protected]

Chicago, June 30, 2021

Elizabeth Lewis

Casting Director

2296 Graystone Lakes

Chicago, IL 60634

Dear Ms. Lewis,

Kindly accept this application from a highly talented, motivated and enthusiastic professional voice actress who wishes to apply for the Voice Actor position with Playergy. I am a radio/online commercial professional with 7+ years of experience in the industry and can provide you with a host of voice acting skills.

In my current role as a freelance voice actress, I have recorded and edited 350+ voice over projects for radio and online commercials, less frequently television. I also have experience in audiobook narration (up to 10 hours long) and live broadcasting. I have worked many years to develop my high, sweet voice and I have mainly voiced rambunctious girls, squeaky teens, tough chicks, young mothers, and children. Highly proficient in Audacity, Camtasia Studio, and iMovie.

As a life-long fan of Playergy’s video games, I would enjoy the opportunity to put my skills and professional experience to work as a voice actress. I strongly believe that you will find my vocal talents indispensable to your success. 

When could we meet in person to discuss my candidacy with you in further detail?

Kind regards,

There you have it—a sample acting cover letter certain to win the casting director over. But what if you’re only just starting your journey as an actor and have no professional experience to show off?

Don’t worry. An acting cover letter with no experience just needs a different focus. So let’s take a look at Vicki’s sample. 

She’s a recent acting graduate that hasn’t yet worked professionally. As an ambitious drama student, she took part in various university projects that polished her skills and gave her something to show off in her application. Take a look at how she wows the casting manager:

Example #2: Acting Cover Letter for Beginners

Vicki Morrell

1116 Park Street

San Francisco, CA 94104

661-540-3057

[email protected]

San Francisco, June 15, 2021

Jennifer Morse

NGB Studios

3122 Lowndes Hill Park Road

Los Angeles, CA 93550

Dear Ms. Morse,

I am writing to express my interest in a role for the new series ‘The Lynches’. As indicated on my resume, I am a recent Academy of Arts graduate with an MFA in Acting and I have been a drama student since middle school. 

During my time at the academy I have contributed to 8 short films, 1 student web series, and 5 plays ranging from drama to comedy. I have also took on numerous backstage roles, including running lights, crew, and box office. I take my career very seriously and have invested time, money, and energy into becoming a professional actress. Currently, I am working a play at the Guzman Theater, where I portray 3 different characters from Greek mythology. Please kindly accept the invitation to see the premiere, as I have attached 2 comp tickets. 

It would be an honor to be a part of an NGB Studios production, and I would welcome the opportunity to audition for you and discuss the roles further. 

Please do not hesitate to contact me for further information.

You now know what professional cover letters look like !

Now it’s time to write your own.

2. How to Write an Acting Cover Letter?

Here’s how to write a cover letter that gets you gigs:

1. Format Your Acting Cover Letter Like You Would a Formal Business Letter

Well-written screenplays are not only clean, but also structured in a way that pushes the story forward. You know what makes that possible?

Proper formatting.

So make sure to format your cover letter in a way that makes it easier for casting managers to digest, so it doesn’t land in the trash.

How to Format an Acting Cover Letter

• Choose a font that’s clean, elegant and consistent with the font you used for your resume .
• Left-align all your contents, don’t use justification.
• Use the 3-paragraph arrangement: Introduction, Motivation, Call to Action.
• Single space your document and set 1-inch margins on all sides.
• Fit your cover letter onto one page—it's the right cover letter length .

Expert Hint: If you don’t feel like playing with formatting, you can use ready-made Word cover letter templates or Google Docs cover letter templates .

2. Put Your Full Contact Details in the Cover Letter Header

If you want your name to be as recognizable as Jennifer Aniston or Leonardo DiCaprio, you better put it everywhere you can to make it start ringing a bell. Why don’t you start with including it in your cover letter heading section ?

Your cover letter, your resume, and your headshot should all have a header that’s identical—just in case they get separated. Here’s an easy template that you can use:

Acting Cover Letter Sample: Header

[ Your Name] 

[ Your Job Title ] (Optional)

[ Home Address ] (Optional)

[ Telephone Number ]

[ Email Address ]

[ LinkedIn Profile ]

[ City ] + [ Date of Writing ]

[ Casting Manager’s Name ]

[ Casting Manager / Casting Director / Agent / Hiring Manager’s Job Title ]

[ Company Name ]

[ Company Street Address ]

[ City, State, Zip Code ]

Place your header in the top-left corner of your document, and now you’re ready to start writing your cover letter .

Double your impact with a matching resume and cover letter combo. Use our cover letter generator and make your application documents pop out.

CREATE YOUR COVER LETTER NOW

Want to try a different look? There's 21 more. A single click will give your document a total makeover. Pick a cover letter template here .

3. Introduce Yourself and Identify the Role or Position You Are Interested In

Start your cover letter with addressing the casting director or agent by name. Why?

You want to make it personal—and that’s your main hook. Introduce yourself, state the role or job you’re applying for, and give them a brief summary of your experience and skills. Here’s a template for you to use:

Acting Cover Letter Example: Introduction

Dear   [Casting Director’s / Agent’s / Hiring Manager’s Name]

As an  [actor/actress/voice actor etc.]  with  [X] + years of experience, I was thrilled to see you’re looking for new actors for the upcoming  [Name of Studio]  production. I’m especially interested in  [Name of Role]   as my recent work   [A previous experience/role that proves you have the talent and skills to tackle the specific role] . 

Now remember—casting directors are the most powerful people in the industry. So make sure to always use a polite and professional greeting. 

If you know the casting manager’s gender, the best way to address your cover letter is by using either “Mr.” or “Ms.” Try not to use “Mrs.” unless you are 100% certain of the person’s marital status. For example:

• Dear Mr. Daddario
• Dear Ms. Winburn

If you know their first and last name, but are unsure of their gender, start with “Dear” followed by the full name:

• Dear Marie Cortez
• Dear Michael Mercado

Avoid greetings like “Dear Sir or Madam” or “To Whom It May Concern”, unless you’re a time-traveler actor from the Silent Era.

Expert Hint: If you’re represented by an agent, do not contact casting directors behind your agent's back. 

4. Portray Your Best Acting Skills & Experience

Do you have a handful of roles that you have taken as an actor? Finished a prestigious acting school or took a class with the most well-known director? Do a close-up of this action and use all your previous experience to show how gifted you really are.

Make them an offer they can’t refuse. Use the following cover letter tips and template for your motivational paragraph:

Cover Letter for Acting: Motivation

I obtained my   [Degree Name]  from  [College Name]  with a   [X]   GPA, where I developed a special interest in  [Specific Acting Technique or Method] .  During my  entire career as an   [ Actor / Actress ]   I have demonstrated consistent excellence in applying this  [ Method / Technique ] . I think these accomplishments will put me in the picture:

• [Acting Experience #1]. [Milestone #1]
• [Acting Experience #2]. [Milestone #2]
• [Acting Experience #3]. [Milestone #3]

Make yourself look like a superstar, and just wait for that phone to be ringing off the hook with callbacks and audition opportunities!

Expert Hint:  Are cover letters really necessary ? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , the acting profession is pretty steady and the average pay isn’t that great. So, especially if you’re an applicant with no experience , you’re going to need a cover letter.

5. Show Them That You Admire Them

Hollywood and big egos go together, like Batman and Robin. That’s why you also have to sprinkle in a compliment or two to show them you are up-to-date with their work. 

Since an acting cover letter should be short and sweet, try to fit this section into two or three sentences. Try this sample:

Acting Cover Letter Template

It is really inspiring to me that, at   [ Company / Studio / Agency Name ] , you   [ Be Honest and Give Something You Truly Admire About This Company ] . I would be honored to be considered for a role at   [ Company Name ] .

Put a smile on their faces and show real enthusiasm. Authenticity is scarce these days, but also highly appreciated.

Expert Hint: You don’t want your cover letter to look generic , that’s why personalizing your cover letter make it really stand out. Most recruiters first weed out those applications that look mass-produced, as they are not special, nor memorable.

6. Ask for an Audition When Ending Your Acting Cover Letter

Before you send your application,  end your cover letter strong. Ask for a meeting or audition. Don’t be shy and show them what you’ve got. Just like this:

Acting Cover Letter to Agents: CTA

Can we set up a meeting, so I could audition for the part? I am available at your convenience.

[Digital Version of Your Signature] (optional)

[Your First & Last Name]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your Email Address]

With ResumeLab’s resume builder you’ll write your resume in a flash. Get specific content to boost your chances of getting the job. Add job descriptions, bullet points, and skills. Improve your resume in our resume builder now .

CREATE YOUR RESUME NOW

Nail it all with a splash of color, choose a clean font, highlight your skills in just a few clicks. You’re the perfect candidate and we’ll prove it. Just pick one of 21 resume templates and get started now .

When writing a professional acting cover letter, remember to:

• Format your acting cover letter properly.
• Address your letter to a casting director or manager directly.
• Back up your experiences with results or metrics, if possible.
• Show motivation and enthusiasm for the part.
• End with a solid call to action.

About ResumeLab’s Editorial Process

At ResumeLab, quality is at the crux of our values, supporting our commitment to delivering top-notch career resources. The editorial team of career experts carefully reviews every article in accordance with editorial guidelines , ensuring the high quality and reliability of our content. We actively conduct original research, shedding light on the job market's intricacies and earning recognition from numerous influential news outlets . Our dedication to delivering expert career advice attracts millions of readers to our blog each year.

Aleksandra is a career expert with a solid professional background in various industries. At ResumeLab, she shares her knowledge, insights and expertise with all applicants looking to make a career move with a perfect resume and cover letter that guarantee recognition and success.

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How to write an acting cover letter for beginners, ​further reading:.

• Sample Cover Letter for Agent Representation
• How to Write Actor Cover Letters: The Ultimate Guide
• How to Get an Acting Agent: The Ultimate Guide

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Actor Cover Letter Example (w/ Templates & Tips for 2024)

Whether it’s on the stage or in front of the camera, the spotlight is where you feel at home.

You’re an actor who can breathe life into any character and learn the most complicated lines.

But when it comes to writing your cover letter, even the most seasoned actors can feel like they’re performing in a language they don’t speak.

Try as you might, your acting skills and know-how just don’t translate well onto the page.

Don’t worry. We’re here to give you the script to success.

In this article, we’re going to cover:

• The Anatomy of a Winning Actor's Cover Letter
• 5 Steps to Writing an Award-Winning Actor Cover Letter
• 3 Essential Cover Letter Tips for Actors

Ready to break a leg? Let's get started! 

Actor Cover Letter Example

5 Steps for the Perfect Actor Cover Letter

Now that you've seen what a great actor cover letter looks like, it’s time to write your own .

You just need to follow a few simple steps:

#1. Put Contact Information in the Header

Let’s start your actor cover letter from the top, the same way we would start your resume . Your cover letter’s header is where you should include your contact details.

Here's what this section needs:

• First and Last Name. Make sure your full name shines at the top.
• Professional Title. Match this with the specific job you’re after, whether it’s “theater camp counselor” or “background actor”.
• Email Address. Keep it professional by using a combo of your full name. Quirky high school emails won't cut it. (e.g.: [email protected] is okay but [email protected] is not.)
• Phone Number. Make sure it's accurate so that directors can reach you easily.
• Location. Usually, your city and state/country are enough. But if you're open to relocating, mention it in your cover letter and resume.
• Relevant Links (optional). Share any relevant links, such as performances or social media profiles that showcase your talent.

Now, let's talk about the hiring manager’s contact information :

• Company Name. Mention the production company you're applying to.
• Casting Director's Name. If you can find it, great! Check the audition notice, the production company’s website, or their relevant social media.
• Location. City and state/country details are crucial, especially for international productions.
• Email Address (optional). If you've got it, include it.
• Date of Writing (optional). Adding the date you penned your letter gives it a nice, professional touch.

#2. Address the Hiring Manager

Once you've sorted out the contact details, it's time to address your actor cover letter properly. No more of that generic "To Whom It May Concern."

A personalized greeting makes a much better impression—if you do it right.

So, let's start with some research. Check the casting call, the production company's website, or their social media profiles to identify the hiring manager. Find their name and, if possible, their email address.

Once you do, address them professionally. You can use “Ms.” or “Mr.”, followed by their last name. But if you're unsure about their gender or marital status, simply use their full name. For example:

• Dear Mr. Rodriguez
• Dear Alex Rodriguez

And if you can't unearth any information about the hiring manager, just address your letter to the establishment or production company as a whole:

• Dear Casting Director
• Dear Casting Team
• Dear Company X

#3. Write an Eye-Catching Opening Statement

Hiring managers rarely take more than a few seconds to decide if a candidate is worth reading into.

So, you need to make your actor cover letter stand out from the rest at a single glance. This is where your cover letter’s opening paragraph comes into play.

Start your actor cover letter by introducing yourself and why you’re interested in the role you’re applying for. Expressing your passion for the industry and the specific production is always a great way to lead.

Before writing your actor cover letter, you should always research the production you want to be a part of. The more you learn about your potential employer, the better you can emphasize your compatibility with their artistic vision. This signals to the hiring manager that you're not just casting a wide net for any role out there—you genuinely want this particular role.

Your noteworthy achievements or acting skills are a great way to stand out from other applicants with similar backgrounds. Just briefly mention something that’s aligned with the requirements for the role. For example, if they’re looking for someone to take the starring role in a comedy play, mention the relevant acting techniques that would help you excel at the role. 

But make sure you don’t go into too much detail here. Your opening paragraph should be a trailer for the rest of your actor cover letter. The objective here is to spark the hiring manager's curiosity and motivate them to dive deeper into your story.

#4. Use the Cover Letter Body for the Details

After you’ve caught the hiring manager’s attention, it’s time to deliver your best performance.

The body of your cover letter should delve into the details of what makes you a great choice for the role you’re after. But be careful not to make the common mistake of just repeating your resume .

This section of your actor cover letter is meant to showcase your professional talents and qualifications in a way that leaves a lasting impression. Shine the spotlight on any significant achievements in the acting field and use the casting call for inspiration.

Tailoring your cover letter to the requirements behind the ad is crucial. Read the casting call carefully and emphasize skills and experiences that align with the production's needs. For instance, if you're vying for an athletic character in an action-packed production, highlight your experience with stunt work and your other physical skills rather than your improv talents.

And remember to let your enthusiasm shine through your words. Convey your genuine excitement for the role and your unwavering confidence in your ability to contribute to the production with your unique acting skills and experience.

If you want even more inspiration, check out more cover letter examples in this article.

#5. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Ending your cover letter is like taking a final bow on the stage. This is your moment to make a lasting impression on the hiring manager who just read your actor cover letter.

Knowing how to wrap up your cover letter shouldn’t be underestimated. First, write a conclusion that briefly summarizes why you’re the ideal fit for the role. Highlight those unique talents that set you apart from the rest of the candidates and express your confidence that you can contribute to the production.

After summing up your strengths, it's time to give them a cue for the next act—include a call to action. Invite the hiring manager to engage further with your application, whether it's for an audition or a discussion about your potential role.

Lastly, it’s time for your curtain call. Choose an appropriate closing statement and follow it with your full name. Like so:

Please don't hesitate to reach out to me via the provided email or phone number to discuss my application further. I eagerly await the opportunity to delve deeper into how I can contribute to your production.

Best wishes,

And if you're looking for an alternative to "Best wishes," here are a few other lines to consider:

• Warm regards,
• Respectfully yours,
• Thank you for your consideration,

3 Essential Acting Cover Letter Tips

Now that you've got the gist of writing your actor cover letter down, it’s time to give it a final polish.

Just follow these cover letter tips to up your game:

#1. Match Your Resume

Giving your acting application a polished look can give you an edge.

Just matching your resume with your cover letter can present you as an organized and diligent candidate.

Align your text and contact information neatly on the page, maintain consistent font styles and sizes throughout your entire application, and set the page margins to the standard one inch on all sides. While you’re at it, remember to adjust the line spacing to keep your cover letter under one page long.

Or Use A Cover Letter Template Instead

Need a quicker solution?

Try our free resume builder and pair it with one of our cover letter templates .

Developed with input from hiring experts worldwide, each of our templates ensures that your actor cover letter meets industry standards and looks stylish. Your application will be ready in no time!

#2. Add Any Relevant Links

Your actor cover letter should match your resume’s contact information precisely.

So, if you added any relevant links to one, make sure the other has them too. Specifically, when it comes to listing personal websites, acting portfolios, or videos of your performances, casting directors appreciate it.

Adding useful links to your cover letter gives them quick and easy access to your past performances, instead of making them dig back to your resume to find a link. This extra touch of accessibility and professionalism can leave a lasting impression and increase your odds of getting calls from potential casting agencies or directors.

#3. Proofread The Final Draft

You can have an amazing actor cover letter and still get rejected because of one tiny mistake that has huge consequences.

And that mistake is not proofreading your cover letter before sending it. In fact, nearly 79% of hiring managers will outright reject an applicant because of typos or grammar mistakes. That’s a huge risk to take just because you’re too lazy to proofread.

Read your cover letter carefully and keep an eye out for any mistakes. Then try using a spellchecking tool like QuillBot . Run the text of your cover letter through it several times, then check it one more time yourself.

Don’t risk letting a typo ruin your chances of getting a call when you’ve worked so hard to finish your cover letter.

Key Takeaways

And you're ready to write that stellar actor cover letter!

We’re sure you’re all set to land the starring role you’ve got your heart set on.

But before you step into the spotlight, let's recap some highlights from our guide:

• Your actor cover letter should mirror the look of your resume to project professionalism. Just use our online resume builder and grab a matching cover letter template to craft yours.
• Make sure your contact information is accurate and professional. Avoid using any outdated or playful email addresses that might make you look immature.
• Use the body of your cover letter to weave in any skills, training, or experiences that are relevant to the specific role or production company you're applying for. This way, you can paint yourself as the perfect candidate for the job.
• End your cover letter with a heartfelt sign-off, including your full name at the bottom. It's the final touch that delivers a memorable application.

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