short acting cover letter

Writing an Acting Cover Letter: Tips and Examples

In the world of acting, your cover letter can be the ticket to landing that coveted role or sealing a grand performance opportunity. Often overlooked by many, these letters hold a power that might just open doors for you, one audition at a time. As thrilling as the adrenaline rush before hitting the stage, discover how to make your acting cover letter stand out in this guide. Dive into our ultimate compilation of actionable tips and winning examples that are ready to take you under the spotlight!

A cover letter for acting is a document that accompanies an actor's headshot and resume when submitting to casting directors. It should introduce the actor, highlight relevant experience, skills, and training, and convey enthusiasm for the role or production. To write an effective cover letter, tailor it to the specific agent or casting director, be concise, and proofread thoroughly for errors. You may also want to consider examples and tips from reputable sources like Reddit threads or websites such as Jharman, MyPerfectResume, and Backstage.

Understanding Acting Cover Letters

Acting cover letters are essential tools that actors use to introduce themselves and grab the attention of casting directors, agents, or talent managers. These letters serve as the first impression and can significantly impact an actor's chances of getting called in for an audition. By understanding the purpose and types of cover letters, actors can craft compelling and customized letters that showcase their skills, experiences, and passion for the role.

Now that we have a basic understanding of acting cover letters, let's explore their purpose and the different types that actors may encounter.

• As per industry estimates, only about 1% of cover letters capture the attention of casting directors and lead to an audition callback.
• According to a study by Cast It Talent, actors who effectively personalize their cover letters have 20% more likelihood to stand out from the rest in the acting industry.
• A survey conducted by The Acting Studio revealed that over 75% of young actors struggle with creating compelling acting cover letters, pointing out a significant gap in their professional training.

Purpose and Types of Cover Letters

The primary purpose of an acting cover letter is to capture the attention and interest of industry professionals while showcasing the actor's suitability for a specific role or production. It provides an opportunity to go beyond the resume and offer a deeper glimpse into an actor's personality, experience, and dedication to their craft.

There are two main types of cover letters in the acting industry: submission notes and standard acting cover letters. Submission notes are short 2-3 sentence notes attached to online casting submissions, while standard acting cover letters are longer and usually sent via email or traditional mail.

Imagine you're submitting your portfolio for a role in a Broadway production. In your submission note, you might briefly mention any connections you have to the show or director, express your enthusiasm for the material, and highlight any relevant experiences. A standard acting cover letter would provide more space to dive into your personal story, discuss your training and achievements, talk about why you are passionate about this particular production, and connect your experiences to the role being cast.

It's important to tailor each cover letter to the specific recipient - whether it's a casting director for a film, theatre company owner, or talent agent. This customization helps demonstrate your genuine interest in the project or representation while addressing their specific needs.

Crafting an acting cover letter is like preparing for a performance. Just as actors rehearse their lines and research their characters, writing a cover letter requires careful preparation and understanding of the role and the casting professional's expectations. It's about creating an authentic and compelling connection that leaves a lasting impression.

Cover Letter Examples

Crafting Your Audition Cover Letter

Crafting an exceptional audition cover letter is key to catching the attention of casting directors and showcasing your suitability for a role. While it may seem daunting, breaking down the process into manageable steps can help you create a compelling cover letter that stands out from the competition.

First and foremost, start by researching the production or project you are applying for. Gain a deep understanding of the characters, storyline, and overall tone. This knowledge will enable you to tailor your cover letter to highlight why you are the perfect fit for the role.

Next, begin your cover letter with a strong opening paragraph that grabs the reader's attention. Consider mentioning any mutual connections or previous work on similar projects. This personal touch will make your letter memorable and demonstrate your enthusiasm.

Throughout the body of your cover letter, focus on sharing specific experiences that align with the requirements of the role. Use anecdotes and examples to showcase your abilities and illustrate how you have successfully portrayed similar characters in the past. Highlight any training or skills that make you uniquely qualified for this particular project.

Highlighting Relevant Experience and Skills

When it comes to highlighting relevant experience and skills in your acting cover letter, specificity is key. Casting directors receive numerous submissions, so it's crucial to concisely convey why you are the ideal candidate.

Instead of simply listing every credit and experience you've had, carefully select those that directly relate to the role you're auditioning for. Targeting relevant experiences will show casting directors that you understand the requirements of the part and have successfully tackled similar challenges in previous projects.

For example, if you're auditioning for a romantic lead in a theater production, mention past roles where you portrayed charismatic and romantic characters. Discuss how those experiences honed your ability to connect with audiences emotionally.

Don't forget to emphasize any specialized skills or training that set you apart from other actors. If you possess skills like singing, dancing, or proficiency with dialects, be sure to highlight them in your cover letter. These additional skills can make you a valuable asset to the production and help you stand out among other actors.

Personalization in Cover Letters

When it comes to writing an acting cover letter, personalization is key. Casting directors and agents receive countless cover letters, so you need to find ways to make yours stand out. One effective way to do this is by addressing the recipient by name. Take the time to research and find out who will be reading your letter, as this demonstrates professionalism and attention to detail. Additionally, personalize the content of your letter by referring to specific details about the production or role you are applying for. Show that you have done your homework and are genuinely interested in the opportunity.

For instance, if you're applying for a role in a theatre production, mention the specific play and director's name. This shows that you have taken the time to familiarize yourself with their work and are genuinely excited about the opportunity.

By personalizing your cover letter, you create a stronger connection with the reader and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role or production. It also highlights your professionalism and attention to detail—qualities that casting directors and agents appreciate when sifting through numerous submissions.

Now that we understand the importance of personalization in acting cover letters, let's explore some strategies to make your letter stand out even further.

Making Your Letter Stand Out

In a sea of cover letters, it's crucial to find ways to make yours memorable. Here are a few tips on how to make your acting cover letter stand out:

• Tell a compelling story : Instead of simply listing your credits and experience, use storytelling techniques to captivate the reader's attention. Share personal anecdotes that highlight your passion for acting or experiences that relate directly to the role you're applying for.
• Name-drop mutual connections : If you have any connections within the industry or know someone who has worked with the production team before, mention them in your letter. This can help build credibility and establish a positive connection.
• Highlight relevant skills and qualifications : Focus on the skills and qualifications that make you a strong candidate for the role. Emphasize your training, special talents, or experiences that align with the character or production in question.
• Keep it concise and error-free : While it's important to showcase your personality and enthusiasm, be mindful of the length of your letter. Keep it concise and free of any spelling or grammar mistakes. A polished and well-written cover letter demonstrates professionalism.
• Express gratitude : End your letter by expressing gratitude for the opportunity to be considered. Show appreciation for the casting director or agent's time and consideration, as this leaves a positive final impression.

Remember, each cover letter should be tailored to the specific role or production you're applying for. Take the time to understand the requirements and expectations, and customize your letter accordingly.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Writing an acting cover letter can be a challenging task, full of potential pitfalls that can hinder your chances of standing out among the competition. So, what are some common pitfalls to avoid when crafting your acting cover letter? And how can you navigate around them to create a strong and impactful letter?

One common mistake is lacking personalization in your cover letter. Avoid sending generic letters that could apply to any casting opportunity. Instead, take the time to research the production, casting director, or agent you are submitting to. Tailor your cover letter to highlight why you specifically want to work on this project and why you believe you would be a great fit. Personalize your letter by mentioning specific elements from the production or expressing genuine enthusiasm for the role.

Spelling and grammar mistakes can also undermine your professionalism and credibility. Make sure to proofread your cover letter carefully before sending it out. Consider asking a trusted friend or family member to review it as well, as fresh eyes might catch errors that you might have overlooked. Remember, a polished and error-free cover letter reflects positively on your attention to detail and commitment to excellence.

Another pitfall is including an extensive list of credits and experiences without tying them directly to the role or production. While it's important to showcase your past work and accomplishments, focus on highlighting relevant skills and experiences that make you a strong candidate for this particular role. Choose credits that demonstrate your ability to handle similar characters or productions.

For example, if you're applying for a dramatic role in a theater production, emphasize any previous experience in serious or intense roles. Explain how these experiences have prepared you for the challenges of the current role and showcase your versatility as an actor.

Lastly, avoid using unclear language or being too vague in your cover letter. Clearly state which character or production you are submitting for. Share specific qualifications that make you suitable for the role. Provide clarity and detail, ensuring that the recipient understands exactly what you bring to the table.

By being mindful of these pitfalls, you can significantly enhance the effectiveness of your acting cover letter. Take the time to personalize your letter, proofread it thoroughly, focus on relevant experiences, and communicate with clarity. These small but important steps will help you create a cover letter that captures attention and increases your chances of securing the desired role.

• Crafting a strong and impactful acting cover letter requires avoiding common pitfalls such as lack of personalization, spelling and grammar mistakes, irrelevant credits and experiences, and unclear language. Personalize the letter by mentioning specific elements from the production or expressing genuine enthusiasm for the role. Proofread it carefully to eliminate any errors and seek feedback from others. Emphasize relevant skills and experiences that make you a strong candidate. Clearly state which character or production you are submitting for and provide clarity and detail to help capture attention and increase your chances of securing the desired role.

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Acting Cover Letter Examples and Templates for 2024

• Cover Letter Examples
• Resume Text Examples
• How To Write a Acting Cover Letter

Casting directors receive numerous inquiries from actors, actresses, and agents on a daily basis. To differentiate yourself from the competition, you need a powerful cover letter that features your strongest performances, accolades, and experience. This guide provides examples and expert tips to capture the most compelling aspects of your acting career.

Acting Cover Letter Templates and Examples

• Entry-Level
• Senior-Level

Acting Text-Only Cover Letter Templates and Examples

Samantha Stone Actress | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | New York, NY 12345

January 1, 2024

Cole Thomas Director Lyric Theater (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Thomas,

During my time with Cherry Lane Theater, I achieved high praise from audiences and critics for my performances as Elphaba in “Wicked” and as Mary Magdalene in “Jesus Christ Superstar.” I hope to bring similar success to your production of “Rent” in the role of Mimi.

Lyric Theater’s reputation as one of New York’s greatest artistic venues is what drives me to audition for this production. My experience as a lead actress within musical theater will allow me to bring your directorial vision to life based on the following achievements from my career:

• Received positive responses from critics in local newspapers for performance in Cherry Lane Theater’s production of “Wicked” in the role of Elphaba
• Delivered emotional performances in supporting roles as Mary Magdalene in “Jesus Christ Superstar” and as Ali in “Mamma Mia!”
• Performed in Columbia University’s production of “Moulin Rouge” as Christine

I hope to schedule an audition with you to showcase how my dynamic acting skills can bring emotional resonance to your production of “Rent.” You may contact me via phone or email at your convenience. I appreciate both your time and consideration.

Samantha Stone

Stella Cortez Actress | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | Los Angeles, CA 12345

Carol Jackson Director Starlight Productions (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Ms. Jackson,

Throughout my acting career, I’ve been featured in numerous independent films across a wide range of genres. My performance in the lead role as Anna in Robert Grayson’s debut film, “Searching for Eurydice,” was highly regarded by critics for the emotional nuance I brought to the part. I am confident my experience within the independent film circuit will aid the success of your new film.

The impressive writing and directing style of your independent film, “The Song of Sorrow,” is what drives me to audition for your new production. My acting style and film experience make me an ideal fit for this project based on my career accomplishments:

• Received a nomination for best lead actress from the Independent Spirit Awards for performance as Anna in “ Searching for Eurydice ”
• Nominated for best supporting actress from the Independent Spirit Awards for the role of Harriot in Lisa Goldman’s production of “Last Light in the West”
• Achieved recognition for supporting role as Claire in Christine Morrison’s drama film, “My Night with Lya,” which aired on the Sundance Channel

I would like to schedule an audition to show further how my expertise as an independent film actress can benefit your new project. Feel free to contact me via phone or email at your convenience. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Stella Cortez

Edward Brown  Actor | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | Atlanta, GA 12345

Hector Johnson Casting Director CBS (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Johnson,

Throughout my career, I’ve achieved success in various recurring television roles. My proudest achievement was my performance as James Robinson in the limited true-crime series ”Hades,” which received a positive response in critical reviews. My versatility as a television actor will allow me to excel in your new television production.

The critical acclaim of Saleem Roberts’ “Running from Truth ” draws me to audition for a role in this new series. My dynamic acting style will allow me to deliver powerful performances for your production based on my past achievements:

• Received an Emmy nomination for best supporting actor in a drama series for emotionally charged performance as James Robinson in “Hades”
• Achieved recognition from critics for the role of Javert in the Lyric Theatre production of “Les Miserables ,” which included a Tony Award nomination for best supporting actor
• Utilized method acting techniques to bring the role of Draco Malfoy to life in the Apollo Theatre production of “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child”

I hope to schedule an audition to demonstrate how my experience as both a television and theater actor can benefit your production. Feel free to contact me via phone or email at your convenience. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Edward Brown

How To Write an Acting Cover Letter

The key to writing a great acting cover letter is emphasizing your most impressive roles, performances, and accolades. Casting directors will be most interested in these details when determining whether or not to schedule you for an audition. It’s also important to highlight your unique approach to acting and how you’ve brought characters to life throughout your career. Below, we’ll walk you through each section of the acting cover letter:

1. Contact information and salutation

List all essential contact information in the header of your acting cover letter, including your name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn URL. Be sure to address the casting director by name — Mr. or Ms. [Last Name]. This shows you’ve taken the time to familiarize yourself with the director’s work and displays your genuine passion for the opportunity to audition.

2. Introduction

Start your acting cover letter with a compelling introduction to convey your interest in the role. Grab the casting director’s attention by highlighting one or two of your strongest performances. If you achieved an award nomination, such as a Tony Award, mention it in the opening paragraph. This will help attract interest from production companies and encourage the casting director to learn more about your experience.

3. Body paragraphs

Feature your previous performances as an actor or actress in your body paragraphs. Mention one of the director’s past productions if you’re familiar with their work. But be careful not to allocate too many sentences to this, as it’s important to keep the reader’s focus on your achievements. Also, consider featuring a list of bullet points detailing notable roles and awards you’ve garnered throughout your acting career.

The critical acclaim of Saleem Roberts’ “Running from Truth” draws me to audition for a role in this new series. My dynamic acting style will allow me to deliver powerful performances for your production based on my past achievements:

• Achieved recognition from critics for the role of Javert in the Lyric Theatre production of “Les Miserables,” which included a Tony Award nomination for best supporting actor

4. Acting skills and techniques

Although listing your skill sets isn’t the correct approach for an acting cover letter, there are some benefits to weaving certain details into your paragraphs. For instance, if you were seeking an audition for a role that requires a particular vocal range, emphasizing that you’re a Soprano or Alto could be important. Below, you’ll find a list of acting skills to consider featuring in your cover letter:

5. Closing section

In the closing paragraph of your acting cover letter, include a call to action inviting the casting director to bring you in for an audition. Emphasize how your technology expertise and leadership background would be an asset to the organization. Be sure to thank the reader for their time and consideration in the last sentence.

Acting Cover Letter Tips

1. feature your most prominent performances.

Your previous performances as an actor should be the focal point of your cover letter. Emphasize the emotion and depth you brought to your roles. Mention the types of acting techniques you used to help bring characters to life. These details will help you make a lasting impression on the casting director and increase your odds of landing the audition.

2. Mention notable awards and accolades

In addition to mentioning your prior acting roles, be sure to feature any awards or nominations you’ve received in your career. This demonstrates that your performances have stood out to audiences. If you lack any notable awards, you might mention that a role received positive reviews from local critics.

3. Include the name of the theater and director

In some instances, it’s advantageous to include the name of the theater or director in your cover letter. For example, playing a leading role in “Rent” for a prestigious Broadway theater carries more weight than a lesser-known production company. Similarly, if you’ve worked under a director who is highly regarded, including their name can also work to your advantage.

Acting Cover Letter FAQs

Why should i include an acting cover letter -.

Although your portfolio will always be the priority for casting directors, including a cover letter can be advantageous in many situations. This allows you to provide insights into your acting style and make your case for why you’re the ideal person for the role.

How do I make my acting cover letter stand out? -

To make your acting cover letter stand out, mention your most prestigious performances and awards. Be sure to also demonstrate your familiarity with the production company or director, as this shows you’re a serious acting professional who is passionate about the opportunity.

How long should my acting cover letter be? -

In most instances, it’s best to keep your cover letter concise and focused, limited to no more than three or four paragraphs. Use your page space wisely, emphasizing only your most prominent roles. This will keep the casting director’s eye on your most impressive qualifications and experience.

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Acting Cover Letter in 2024: Samples and Writing Guide

Acting cover letters are an essential tool for actors who wish to showcase their skills and win a job. A cover letter is a document submitted alongside an actor’s resume that introduces the actor and summarizes their strengths, training, and experience. This article will provide an overview of acting cover letters and explain their importance in the competitive world of acting.

Overview of Acting Cover Letters

At its core, an acting cover letter is a marketing document that highlights an actor’s strengths and convinces the reader to give them an audition. A good cover letter should be well-written, concise, and tailored to the specific job or project the actor is applying for. Unlike a resume, which lists an actor’s experience and skills, a cover letter allows an actor to showcase their personality and passion for the craft.

Acting cover letters typically include the following information:

• An opening statement that introduces the actor and explains why they are interested in the job
• A brief summary of the actor’s experience and training
• A list of the actor’s skills and strengths
• An explanation of why the actor is the right fit for the job
• A closing statement that thanks the reader and invites them to contact the actor for an audition

Importance of Acting Cover Letters

In the competitive world of acting, a well-written cover letter can make all the difference. A cover letter allows an actor to showcase their personality and passion for the craft, which can help them stand out from the hundreds or even thousands of other applicants. A well-crafted cover letter can also demonstrate an actor’s attention to detail, professionalism, and communication skills, all of which are important qualities in the entertainment industry.

Furthermore, many casting directors and agents use cover letters as a way to screen applicants and narrow down the pool of candidates. A poorly written or generic cover letter can be a red flag that the actor is either unprofessional or not a good fit for the job. On the other hand, a well-written and tailored cover letter can make the casting director or agent feel like the actor is the perfect fit for the job before even reading their resume.

In short, acting cover letters are a crucial part of the job application process for actors. A well-written and tailored cover letter can help an actor stand out from the competition, demonstrate their professionalism and communication skills, and convince the reader to give them an audition. Over the course of this article, we will provide sample cover letters and a step-by-step guide to writing effective cover letters for actors.

Researching the Theatre or Film Company

As an aspiring actor, it’s important to research the theatre or film company you are applying to. This section will cover three key aspects of researching a company – finding the company details, understanding the company’s culture and values, and analyzing the company’s previous productions.

A. Finding the Company Details

Before submitting an acting cover letter, it’s important to gather basic information about the theatre or film company. This includes identifying the company’s website, social media profiles, and any recent news articles or press releases. Additionally, you may want to search for interviews with the company’s directors or producers to gain insight into their vision and goals.

Some important details to look for include the company’s mission statement, current projects, and upcoming auditions. Understanding these details will help you tailor your cover letter and showcase how you can contribute to the company’s goals.

B. Understanding the Company’s Culture and Values

In addition to the basic company details, it’s important to research the company’s culture and values. This can help you understand what the company prioritizes, how they work together, and what they expect from their actors.

Look for information about the company’s working style, leadership philosophy, and team dynamics. For example, does the company value collaboration and experimentation, or are they more focused on traditional performance styles? Understanding these cultural elements will help you craft a more effective cover letter that aligns with the company’s values.

C. Analyzing the Company’s Previous Productions

Finally, it’s important to analyze the company’s previous productions. This can give you insight into their overall aesthetic, the types of roles they typically cast, and the quality of their productions.

Look for reviews of previous productions, as well as any video clips or photos of performances. Pay attention to the types of roles featured in their productions and any recurring themes or styles. This information can help you tailor your cover letter to showcase your relevant experience and skills.

Researching the theatre or film company is a key aspect of crafting an effective acting cover letter. Gathering basic company details, understanding the company’s culture and values, and analyzing their previous productions can help you showcase your qualifications and stand out from the competition.

Understanding the Role You’re Applying For

Acting is an art that requires talent, passion, and dedication. Whether you’re a seasoned actor or a beginner, it’s essential to understand the role you’re applying for before you audition. This section will cover the important aspects of understanding the role you’re applying for, including what the casting director is looking for, understanding the character and script, and the requirements of the role.

A. What the Casting Director is Looking for

The casting director is the person responsible for selecting actors for a particular role. To impress the casting director, it is essential to understand what they are looking for in the role. This may include specific physical attributes, characteristics, and qualities that are necessary for the role. You should research the casting director’s previous work to understand their style and preferences, which will give you a better understanding of what they’re seeking.

B. Understanding the Character and Script

To fully dive into a character’s role, you must understand the character’s backstory, personality, and motivations. Understanding the script will also give you an edge in portraying the character as accurately as possible. Ensure that you read and comprehend the script and understand the character’s actions and reactions to situations. Research the story’s background setting to understand how the character relates to the story’s ambiance, which can significantly impact your overall performance.

C. Requirements of the Role

Every role requires specific skills and abilities that an actor must have. You should read through the role’s description to understand the role’s requirements, including the necessary physical features, talents, experiences, and even language proficiency. For instance, if the role requires a particular accent, you should take the time to perfect it. These requirements should guide how you tailor your acting cover letter and resume to the role.

Understanding the role you’re applying for is essential to stand out and make a positive impact during an audition. Be sure to research the casting director, thoroughly read and understand the character and script, and the requirements of the role. This way, you can fully embody the role and convincingly showcase your talent as an actor.

Acting Cover Letter Structure

As an aspiring actor, your cover letter is your first opportunity to make an impression on casting directors and agents. The structure of your cover letter plays a crucial role in determining whether your application will be considered or simply tossed aside. Here’s a breakdown of the essential elements of an effective acting cover letter:

A. Heading and Greeting

Begin your cover letter with a professional heading that includes your name, address, phone number, and email address. Use a standard font (such as Times New Roman) with a 12-point size. In the greeting, address the recipient by name if possible. If you don’t know the person’s name, use “Dear Casting Director” or “Dear Agent.”

B. Introduction

Your intro should be brief and to the point. State the reason you’re writing (e.g. to apply for an acting role) and mention the name of the production or company you’re interested in. A captivating opening sentence can help grab the reader’s attention.

C. Second Paragraph: Highlight the Relevant Experience

In this paragraph, highlight your most relevant experience and skills. Mention any past acting roles and include links to your showreel, IMDB page, or other online portfolio where possible. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and experience.

D. Third Paragraph: Your Passion for Acting

This is your chance to show your passion for acting. Describe what motivates you to pursue a career in acting and what you love about the profession. Be authentic and show your personality.

E. Fourth Paragraph: Call-to-Action

End your cover letter with a strong call-to-action. State clearly what you want the recipient to do (e.g. to invite you for an audition or to call you for an interview) and provide your availability. Make it easy for the reader to contact you by providing your phone number and email address again.

F. Closing Statement

Wrap up your cover letter with a professional closing statement. Thank the recipient for considering your application and express your enthusiasm for the opportunity. Sign off with “Sincerely” or “Best regards” followed by your name.

Remember, your cover letter should be concise, relevant, and easy to read. Use bullet points if necessary to highlight your key points. By following this structure, you can increase your chances of getting noticed and landing that dream acting role.

Key Elements of an Effective Acting Cover Letter

Writing an effective acting cover letter is essential in making a great first impression on potential employers. It doesn’t only showcase your skills and experience, but also your personality, enthusiasm, and professionalism. To ensure that your cover letter stands out, there are key elements that you need to include:

A. Accomplishments

One of the key elements of an effective acting cover letter is highlighting your accomplishments. This can include previous work experience, awards, training, or any other achievements that show your dedication and talent in the field. Accomplishments help show employers that you are a hard worker who has what it takes to succeed in the acting industry. Be sure to provide specific details and numbers to support your experience.

B. Attention-Grabbing Opening Statement

Your opening statement is the first impression that potential employers will have of you. Make it captivating and unique to grab their attention immediately. It should be short and catchy, highlighting your strengths and what makes you stand out from other applicants. Avoid generic statements or clichés, but rather show creativity and originality.

C. Relevance to the Role

It’s important to demonstrate in your cover letter how your skills and experience align with the role you are applying for. Read the job description thoroughly and tailor your cover letter to address any specific requirements. Use examples from past work experiences or training to show how you fit the role and why you are the best candidate.

D. Enthusiasm

Acting is a passionate and competitive industry, and employers want to see that you are enthusiastic about the role and the opportunity to work with them. Your cover letter should show genuine interest and excitement for the job. Use descriptive language to show your passion and enthusiasm for acting.

E. Personality

Your cover letter is not just about showcasing your skills and experience, but also your personality. Employers want to see if you are a good fit for their company culture and team. Show your unique characteristics and what makes you stand out. Use your tone and language to reflect your personality and show your genuine interest in the role and the industry.

F. Professionalism

Finally, professionalism is a key element in every cover letter. Use proper grammar and spelling, and make sure the formatting is consistent throughout. Address the employer in a professional manner and avoid using slang or overly casual language. Make sure to proofread your cover letter before submitting it to avoid any errors.

An effective acting cover letter should include accomplishments, an attention-grabbing opening statement, relevance to the role, enthusiasm, personality, and professionalism. By highlighting these key elements in your cover letter, you can showcase your skills and experience, express your enthusiasm, and demonstrate why you are the best candidate for the role.

Sample Acting Cover Letters

Here are five sample cover letters for actors at different stages of their careers. Use these as inspiration for your own cover letter, and tailor them to fit your specific experience and qualifications.

A. Recent Acting Graduate Cover Letter

Dear [Casting Director Name],

I recently graduated with a BFA in Acting and am writing to express my interest in auditioning for your upcoming production. My studies have equipped me with the skills and techniques necessary to bring complex characters to life on stage and screen. I am excited for the opportunity to work with a talented team and bring my passion for the craft to your production.

During my time in school, I was fortunate to have worked on a variety of productions both on and off stage, which allowed me to hone my craft and develop my unique voice as an actor. I have gained experience in script analysis, character development, and vocal and physical techniques, which have prepared me for a professional career in acting.

I would be honored to audition for any available roles in your production and believe that my training and experience would make me a valuable and dedicated addition to your team. Thank you for considering me for this opportunity, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

B. Experienced Actor Cover Letter

As a seasoned actor with [Number] years of experience in stage, film, and television, I am submitting my application for any roles in your upcoming production. With a strong background in drama, comedy, and improvisation, I am confident in my ability to bring a range of characters to life and collaborate effectively with directors, producers, and fellow actors.

I have worked on a variety of projects throughout my career, from small independent films to large feature productions. Through these experiences, I have gained valuable skills in improvisation, script analysis, and character development, allowing me to create grounded and compelling performances on screen and stage.

In addition to my acting experience, I am also a trained singer with a versatile vocal range. I have experience in musical theater and have worked with various vocal trainers and coaches to develop my skills.

I am excited for the opportunity to work with your team and bring my unique perspective and talent to your production. Thank you for taking the time to consider my application, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

C. Retail Job to Acting Transition Cover Letter

After several years working in the retail industry, I have decided to pursue my lifelong passion for acting and am writing to express my interest in submitting for any available roles in your upcoming production. While I am new to the acting profession, I am eager to learn and commit to developing my skills and craft.

Through customer service and sales experience in retail, I have honed my communication and interpersonal skills, allowing me to work effectively and collaboratively with a diverse range of people.

Tips for Writing a Standout Acting Cover Letter

When it comes to writing a standout acting cover letter, there are several tips that can make all the difference. Here are the top five tips to keep in mind:

A. Use Powerful and Emotional Language

Your acting cover letter should be written in a way that showcases your personality, talent and ambition. One way to do this is by using powerful and emotional language. This could include using action verbs to describe your past roles, highlighting your accomplishments or using descriptive words to express your passion for acting.

B. Short and Concise Length

Keep your cover letter short and to the point. This means staying within one page and excluding any unnecessary information. Actors typically have a limited attention span, so aim to grab their attention with a concise and engaging cover letter.

C. Avoid Repeat Information

Acting is a competitive industry, and you want your cover letter to stand out from the rest. Avoid repeating information that may already be included in other parts of your application, such as your resume or personal website.

D. Proofread and Edit the Cover Letter

As with any application material, grammatical and spelling errors can be a red flag for potential employers. To ensure you present yourself in the best possible light, proofread and edit your cover letter before sending it out.

E. Submitting a Personalized Acting Headshot

One final touch that can make a big difference is submitting a personalized acting headshot with your cover letter. This can help casting directors get a better sense of your appearance and range as an actor. Make sure your headshot is high quality and matches the tone and style of your cover letter.

By following these tips, you can create a standout acting cover letter that puts you one step closer to landing your dream role.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

As an aspiring actor, your cover letter is your introduction to potential agents or casting directors. It’s important to understand that your cover letter can make or break your chances of landing a role. Therefore, it’s essential to avoid making common mistakes that could sabotage your success.

A. Being Too Modest

One of the biggest mistakes an actor can make in a cover letter is being too modest. You may think that this is a humble and endearing quality, but in reality, it can come across as lacking confidence or even disinterest.

Remember that your cover letter is the place to highlight your accomplishments, skills, and unique qualities. So don’t be afraid to shine a light on your strengths and show the reader what makes you stand out from the rest of the pack.

B. Overhyped Claims

On the other hand, it’s also essential to avoid making overhyped claims. You may be passionate about acting, but telling a casting director that you’re the best actor they’ve ever seen or that you’re destined to win an Oscar is unlikely to impress them.

Instead, let your skills and experience speak for themselves. Use concrete examples to demonstrate your ability, such as a great performance in a school play, or your extensive training in acting classes or workshops.

C. Use of Generic Language

Another mistake to avoid is the use of generic language.

Avoid using buzzwords or generic terms like “”hardworking”” or “”passionate”” that don’t add value to your letter. Instead, use language that is specific to you and your experience, highlighting your unique perspective or training that you bring to each role.

D. Grammatical and Spelling Errors

Lastly, it’s crucial to proofread your letter before submitting it. Grammatical and spelling errors can detract from the overall quality of your letter and make you appear unprofessional.

Use spell check and have someone else read over your letter. Consider checking your grammar with online tools like Grammarly or Hemingway, to ensure your writing is clear and easy to understand.

Avoiding these common mistakes can help increase your chances of landing a role – so take your time, put in the effort, and make your cover letter stand out from the rest.

What to Expect After Submitting your Acting Cover Letter

Congratulations, you’ve submitted your acting cover letter! Now what?

A. Waiting for a Response

Patience is key in the waiting game. It’s common to feel anxious about hearing back from casting directors or talent agencies, but remember that they receive numerous submissions and it may take some time to review them all.

If you haven’t heard back after a week or so, it’s okay to follow up with a polite email or phone call to inquire about the status of your submission. However, make sure to give them enough time to review your materials before making any follow-up attempts.

B. Preparing for an Audition

If you’re fortunate enough to be called in for an audition, it’s important to come prepared. Here are some tips to help you get ready:

Research the production or project: Familiarize yourself with the project and the characters you may be auditioning for. This will help you tailor your performance to the specific needs of the production.

Memorize your lines: If sides are provided, make sure to memorize them thoroughly. This will enable you to focus on your performance and make any necessary adjustments on the fly.

Dress appropriately: Dress professionally for the audition, but also consider the character you’re auditioning for. If the character is a doctor, for instance, it might be appropriate to wear a white lab coat.

Bring your headshot and resume: Make sure to bring hard copies of your headshot and resume to the audition, just in case.

Be confident: It’s normal to feel nervous, but don’t let that show in your performance. Believe in yourself and your abilities, and let your talent shine through.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to acing your audition and landing the role you’ve been dreaming of. Good luck!

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How to Write an Actor Cover Letter (3 Examples)

By Ammar Ahmed

Published: January 22, 2024

Cover Letters

Ammar Ahmed

Writer & Career Coach

Navigating the competitive world of acting isn’t just about talent; it’s also about presentation. A well-crafted Actor cover letter can be your ticket to grabbing the attention of casting directors or agencies. This guide aims to empower aspiring actors, ensuring your first impression on paper is as memorable as your performance. 

Creating a Winning Actor Cover Letter

In the vibrant world of acting, standing out is crucial. Crafting a winning actor cover letter is much like preparing for a role: it requires research, understanding, and alignment with the character—or in this case, the company and role you’re aspiring to. In this section, we’ll delve into the nuances of creating the perfect cover letter tailored specifically for acting roles.

Researching the Company and Position

The world of acting is diverse, with theaters, film studios, and production houses all having distinct visions and values. Before penning down your cover letter, it’s important to research the company and understand the specific role you’re eyeing. 

• Aligning with Company Values and Goals: Every production company or theater has a unique ethos. Maybe they’re renowned for avant-garde performances, or perhaps they pride themselves on bringing classic literature to life. Aligning your aspirations and experiences with these values can make your actor cover letter more impactful.
• Understanding the Specific Actor Role: Just as every play or movie has a unique story, each role has its intricacies. Demonstrating your understanding of the character you’re auditioning for—not just in performance but also in your cover letter—shows commitment and depth, making you a more appealing choice for casting directors.

With these insights, aspiring actors can craft a cover letter that doesn’t just present their skills but tells a compelling story of alignment, understanding, and passion.

Structuring Your Cover Letter

In the acting industry, every detail counts — from the way you present yourself on stage to how you introduce yourself on paper. A well-structured cover letter can be the prelude to a captivating performance, ensuring casting directors are intrigued enough to see you in action.

Let’s break down the ideal structure of an actor cover letter:

• Heading and Salutation: Begin with your details at the top: name, address, phone number, and professional email address. Address the casting director or agency representative by name if possible. A personal touch, like “Dear Mr. Harrison,” feels more connected than a generic “To Whom It May Concern.”
• Opening Paragraph – Grabbing Attention: Start with a compelling hook. Perhaps reference a notable role you’ve played or a connection you have with the production company or theater. This isn’t just any job application—it’s a performance in itself, and your opening should make them want to read more.
• Middle Paragraph(s) – Showcasing Your Skills and Experience: This is your moment under the spotlight. Highlight roles you’ve played, training you’ve undergone, or experiences that make you a perfect fit for the role in question. Make sure to connect your experiences to the specific character or production you’re auditioning for.
• Closing Paragraph – Expressing Enthusiasm and Call to Action: Convey your passion for acting and your excitement about the possibility of joining the cast. End with a clear call to action, like “I’d be thrilled for an opportunity to audition and further discuss how I can bring this character to life.”
• Signature and Contact Information: Sign off professionally with a “Sincerely” or “Best regards,” followed by your handwritten signature (if sending a hard copy) and typed name. Include your contact information once more, ensuring they have no trouble reaching you for that much-awaited call-back.

With this structure, actors can ensure their applications captivate casting directors, setting the stage for a promising audition and potential role.

Highlighting Relevant Skills and Experience

In the vast expanse of the acting universe, certain skills act as luminous stars, guiding casting directors toward the right fit for their roles. For an actor, weaving these specific skills and experiences into their cover letter can significantly amplify their chances.

Let’s explore these essential actor-centric skills and how you can highlight them effectively.

• Acting Skills and Emotional Range: When it comes to acting, the ability to portray a range of emotions authentically is paramount. Mention any specific training you’ve undergone or roles that challenged your emotional boundaries. For instance, “Playing the lead in a drama that traversed the highs of love and depths of sorrow honed my emotional range, allowing me to resonate with audiences deeply.”
• Vocal Control: Your voice is a powerful asset in your acting toolkit. It’s wise to mention any vocal training you’ve undergone and how it enriched your performances in past roles. “With dedicated vocal training, I’ve gained solid control over my voice, ensuring clear expression whether in soft whispers or powerful shouts.” It’s also helpful to note any accents you can perform proficiently, but remember, honesty is key. It’s not advisable to exaggerate your abilities, as you might find yourself in a tricky spot if asked to demonstrate on the spot.
• Singing and Dancing : If you have talents that extend to singing and dancing, it’s essential to make them known, especially if auditioning for musicals or roles requiring such skills. “My experience in musical theater, coupled with dance lessons in contemporary and tap, has equipped me with a multifaceted performance capability.”
• Adaptability: The dynamic nature of acting often calls for rapid changes and adjustments. Discuss instances where you’ve had to adapt to last-minute script changes or step into a role with limited preparation time. “Stepping into a main role with only two days of prep, following a colleague’s sudden illness, tested and showcased my adaptability, proving my ability to thrive under pressure.”
• Memory and Recall: Remembering lines, especially for longer plays or roles with significant dialogue, is a crucial skill. Emphasize any strategies you use to memorize lines or instances where your strong recall proved advantageous. “Memorizing extensive monologues and rapid dialogue exchanges has honed my recall abilities, ensuring smooth and consistent performances.”

By focusing on these skills and providing contextual examples from your acting journey, you can create a compelling narrative in your cover letter. Such a narrative not only showcases your abilities but also paints a vivid picture of your dedication to the craft.

Tailoring Your Cover Letter

One of the most potent strategies to make your Actor Cover Letter truly shine is tailoring it to the specific role and production you’re aiming for. A generic letter can fall flat, but a bespoke one can capture the casting director’s attention instantly.

Let’s delve into the art of customization:

• Addressing the Hiring Manager: A sprinkle of personal touch can go a long way, starting with addressing the casting director or hiring manager by their name. It lends a warm and attentive tone to your letter, showcasing that you’ve taken that extra step. If you’re unsure of the name, a swift call to the production company or theater could provide you with this detail.
• Matching Job Description Keywords: Pay close attention to the job posting or casting call. They often use specific keywords that hint at what they’re looking for. For actors, such keywords might include “versatile performer,” “strong stage presence,” “physical comedy skills,” or “method acting experience.” Incorporate these into your cover letter organically. For instance, “My training in method acting ensures a deep immersion into any role, guaranteeing a genuine performance.”
• Demonstrating Cultural Fit: This extends beyond just skills. It’s about showcasing that you resonate with the ethos of the theater group, production company, or the essence of the play/film. Researching the company’s past productions or the director’s style can offer insights. For example, if auditioning for an avant-garde theater group known for its unconventional narratives, you could mention, “Having performed in experimental plays, I deeply appreciate and align with [Theater Group’s Name]’s dedication to pushing theatrical boundaries.”

When you tailor your cover letter, it not only reflects your seriousness about the role but also showcases a deeper understanding of what the production is seeking. It tells the casting director that you’re not just looking for any role, but this particular one, in their specific production. And that makes all the difference.

Providing Evidence of Your Accomplishments

While talent is undeniable, evidence of one’s accomplishments can elevate an actor’s standing in the eyes of a casting director.

This is how you can highlight your achievements in the most compelling manner:

• Quantifiable Achievements : Numbers can often tell a story of success more vividly than words. As an actor, you can point to the number of plays or films you’ve been a part of, awards received, or even the audience turnout if it was notably high. For instance, “Over the course of my career, I’ve been cast in over 30 stage productions and 10 films, two of which received nominations at prestigious film festivals. My last theater role attracted an audience of over 5,000 attendees during its month-long run.”
• Relevant Projects and Outcomes: Discuss standout roles that are especially pertinent to the one you’re auditioning for. Highlight the project, your role, and the impact it had. If it’s a dramatic role, perhaps you played a key character in a critically acclaimed drama. If it’s comedic, mention a comedy where your performance was particularly lauded. For example, “Playing the lead in ‘Twilight Whispers’ was a turning point in my career. The drama, which delved into complex human emotions, was praised by critics, with my portrayal of ‘Alex’ earning special recognition for its depth and sensitivity.”

Remember, the acting world is vast, and casting directors often sift through countless applications. By substantiating your experiences with concrete achievements and outcomes, you offer them a clearer lens through which they can envision your potential contributions to their production. It’s this evidence that can truly set you apart in the bustling world of show business.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

The world of show business can be difficult to navigate. Even the smallest mistake in your actor cover letter can lead to lost opportunities.

Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Lack of Research: Imagine auditioning for a historical drama when your cover letter raves about your comedic genius. Always research the project, the production company, and even the casting director. Know the genre, style, and past work of the director. Tailor your letter by emphasizing experiences and skills that align with their specific requirements. It signals respect and genuine interest.
• Overwhelming Length: Casting directors are swamped with auditions and readings. A lengthy cover letter can deter them from reading it fully. Keep it concise, focusing on the most pertinent details. Ideally, restrict it to one page, highlighting only those accomplishments and skills directly relevant to the role you’re seeking.
• Failure to Express Enthusiasm: While you want to come across as professional, don’t forget to express your passion and excitement for the role and the project. Phrases like “I’m thrilled at the prospect of…” or “I’ve always admired the work of [Director/Production Company]…” can go a long way in conveying genuine enthusiasm.
• Poor Grammar and Spelling: This might seem basic, but an Actor Cover Letter riddled with errors can be off-putting. It can suggest a lack of attention to detail or even disinterest. Always proofread your cover letter multiple times, and consider having a friend or mentor review it. Tools like grammar checkers can be useful, but the human eye is unmatched.

Your Actor Cover Letter is often the first impression you’ll make on a casting director. By ensuring it’s meticulously crafted, free from these common mistakes, and genuinely reflective of your skills and passion, you’ll be well on your way to securing that coveted audition.

Related Article: Should you always include a cover letter? Find out instances when you need to include a cover letter . 

Actor Cover Letter Examples

Starting an acting career is a journey full of expressions, characters, and stories waiting to be brought to life. But before the curtain rises, it’s your cover letter that sets the stage, introducing you to casting directors and sharing your story off-screen. Through the following examples, we’ll show how a well-crafted cover letter can capture your passion, skills, and the unique flair you bring to every role, ensuring you step into the audition room on a strong note.

Actor Cover Letter for Talent Agency

For actors seeking representation, writing to a talent agency requires showcasing not just your talent, but also your marketability, dedication, and ability to be a valuable asset for the agency. It’s about building a professional relationship.

Here’s a potential way an actor could introduce themselves to a talent agency:

Anna Martin 789 Stage Street New York, NY 10025 [email protected] (234) 567-8901

October 25, 2023

Mr. James Carter Senior Agent Starlight Talent Agency 101 Broadway Avenue New York, NY 10026

Dear Mr. Carter,

From stage plays in the heart of Broadway to independent film projects that resonate with heartfelt themes, New York’s entertainment world has been my playground for the past five years. As I stand at a crucial juncture in my acting journey, seeking representation from Starlight Talent Agency, recognized for nurturing talent and creating stars, feels like the right next step.

While I’ve been fortunate to land roles in projects like the indie film “City Whispers” and the stage production “Lost and Found,” it’s my recent lead role in the off-Broadway play “Moonlit Tales” that I hold closest to my heart. It was challenging, it tested my adaptability, but it was also rewarding – especially when the New York Times appreciated my “captivating presence and impeccable emotional range.”

The way Starlight Talent Agency handles its talents, right from identifying the right projects to negotiating the best terms, truly stands out. Your agency’s reputation for being actor-centric and valuing the artistic essence alongside commercial success resonates with what I am looking for.

Teaming up with an esteemed agency such as Starlight would provide the platform to elevate my career to the heights I envision. More than just representation, I am looking for a partnership where my passion for storytelling aligns with an agency’s expertise in navigating the vast world of entertainment.

I’ve attached my resume, headshots, and a reel of my performances for your perusal. I’d be thrilled at an opportunity to discuss how we can collaborate to create magic on screen and stage.

Thank you for considering my application.

Best wishes,

Anna Martin

Actor Cover Letter for Casting Director

Approaching a casting director is all about presenting your skills and passion while also demonstrating an understanding of the specific role or project. A casting director is swamped with countless applications, so it’s crucial to capture their attention swiftly, underscoring why you’d be the perfect fit for a part.

Here’s a sample of how you might communicate your enthusiasm and suitability for a role:

Lucas Gray 123 Film Lane Los Angeles, CA 90028 [email protected] (345) 678-9012

Ms. Emily Walker Casting Director Dreamscape Films 456 Hollywood Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90027

Dear Ms. Walker,

The moment I read the casting call for “Sunset Dreams,” I felt a deep connection to the character of Alex. As someone who’s walked the tightrope between chasing ambitions and navigating personal challenges, I instantly recognized the nuances and depths of Alex’s journey. With over seven years of acting experience across TV and theater, I believe I can bring authenticity and depth to this character.

My recent role as Mike in the critically acclaimed TV series “City Lights” required me to portray a multifaceted character balancing ambition with vulnerability, much like Alex. This role not only honed my acting abilities but also fortified my understanding of characters that tread the thin line between dream and reality. The episode where Mike confronts his past was particularly praised for my “emotional depth and impeccable timing,” as mentioned by Entertainment Weekly.

I am deeply impressed by Dreamscape Films’ dedication to storytelling, especially the way you, Ms. Walker, have an uncanny ability to spot and nurture talent, ensuring the characters come alive on screen. It would be an honor to bring Alex to life under your guidance.

Enclosed are my resume, recent headshots, and a link to my showreel, showcasing the range of roles I’ve undertaken. I am eager to delve deeper into Alex’s world and would be thrilled to audition and showcase what I can bring to this dynamic character.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I am looking forward to the possibility of working with you on this exciting project.

Child Actor Cover Letter

When advocating for a young talent, it’s essential to strike a balance between enthusiasm and professionalism. A child actor cover letter often includes input from both the child and their guardian, focusing on the youngster’s passion, adaptability, and relevant experience.

Here’s a sample cover letter representing a child actor for a specific role:

Sophie Turner (on behalf of Emily Turner) 89 Starlight Drive Los Angeles, CA 90028 [email protected] (456) 789-0123 October 25, 2023

Mr. Robert Harris Casting Director Sunshine Productions 123 Hollywood Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90027

Dear Mr. Harris,

I am writing on behalf of my daughter, Emily Turner, who is extremely excited about the role of “Lily” in your upcoming production “Childhood Whispers.” Emily, at just ten years old, has showcased a vivid imagination, a keen sense of observation, and an undeniable passion for acting. She felt an instant connection to Lily’s character when reading the brief and believes she can bring her to life with authenticity and charm.

Emily’s role as “Young Matilda” in the local theater production of “Matilda” was praised by many, with the local newspaper highlighting her “natural flair for acting and an ability to connect with the audience.” Her dedication was evident when she spent weeks mastering a challenging dance sequence, ensuring every move resonated with Matilda’s spirit.

Understanding the commitment required in the film industry, we, as her parents, ensure Emily gets the necessary guidance and balance in her life. We have always admired Sunshine Productions for its commitment to nurturing young talent, and it would be an honor for Emily to be a part of a project under your esteemed banner.

Enclosed are Emily’s resume, recent photographs, and a link to her acting clips. We would be thrilled if she gets an opportunity to audition for “Lily” and showcase her passion and skills.

Thank you for considering Emily’s application. We eagerly await the chance for her to demonstrate her potential and hope she can contribute to making “Childhood Whispers” a success.

Warm regards, Sophie Turner (on behalf of Emily Turner)

Related Article: How to write a cover letter when you have no experience in the field ? Read our guide to learn more.

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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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3 Acting Cover Letter Examples to Edit Free in 2024

• Acting Cover Letter
• Actor Cover Letter
• Acting for Beginners Cover Letter
• Write Your Acting Cover Letter

You play a variety of different roles, portraying each character as unique and memorable. You perform on stage, on film, or as a voice actor behind the mic. No matter where you go, you breathe life into each role!

Now… how do you pack all that value when writing a cover letter that complements your acting resume and stands out as much as your acting abilities do?

Don’t stress! We’ve spent years helping actors like you get to where they want to go, and we’ve put together three acting cover letter examples and a free AI cover letter generator to inspire you on your journey.

Acting Cover Letter Example

USE THIS TEMPLATE

Microsoft Word

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Block Format

Copy this text for your Acting cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Detroit, MI 48201 (123) 456-7890

October 30, 2023

Evelyn Martinez Little Caesars 123 Fictional Lane Detroit, MI 48201

Dear Ms. Martinez,

I’m excited about the opportunity of infusing life into scripts and captivating audiences as your next voice actor. As a child, watching the original Little Caesars puppet animation commercials, I was captivated by the verbal artistry that added layers of emotion and fun, leaving a deep impression on me. With over six years in voice acting, I’m thrilled to bring my eclectic vocal range and acting skills to a brand that has profoundly influenced my career choices.

Plying my vocal skills at WXYT-FM – 97.1 The Ticket, I contributed significantly to their content creation, utilizing my voice control to portray diverse characters across multiple genres. It brought about a 13% increase in listenership, translating into an approximate amplification in the audience base of 3197 listeners. Further, my abilities in voice projection played a vital role in the success of a local theater production, “Remembering Motown,” facilitating a 9% boost in ticket sales and pulling in an additional $28,673 in revenue.

Continuing my voice journey, I fortified my proficiency in script analysis while working at Digital Detroit. This led to a more compelling depiction of emotes and character nuances, reducing the need for multiple retakes by 12%.

My ability to accurately convey messages and maintain the audience’s interest can substantially contribute to the enhancement of Little Caesars’ presence. Attached is my headshot to give a face to the voice. Looking forward to discussing this opportunity further. Thank you.

Jayden Patel

Enclosures: Resume Application 2 letters of recommendation Headshot

Why this cover letter works

• Your photo should be inviting, something that positively embodies your character and portrays your confidence without compromising the professional aspect of it.

Level up your cover letter game

Relax! We’ll do the heavy lifting to write your cover letter in seconds.

Actor Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your Actor cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue El Paso, TX 79901 (123) 456-7890

Henry Robinson The Plaza Theatre Performing Arts Center 123 Fictional Lane El Paso, TX 79901

Dear Mr. Robinson,

I’m genuinely excited about the prospect of using my acting prowess to captivate audiences and deliver memorable experiences as a part of The Plaza Theatre Performing Arts Center. Having attended numerous productions at your prestigious venue since childhood, I’ve always been touched by the evocative performances and engaging narratives. With several years of experience honing my skills in character analysis, blocking, and improvisation, I’m eager to contribute my strengths to a theatre that has left an indelible impression on my artistic journey.

During my tenure at El Paso Playhouse, I immersed myself in character analysis, bringing a diverse range of characters to life. Notably, my rendition of McMurphy in “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” surged show attendance by 11%, translating into an additional $7,647 in revenue.

Moreover, at the UTEP Dinner Theatre, my talent for intelligent stage utilization was honed, particularly in musical productions such as “Fiddler On The Roof.” This enhanced our productions’ visual grandeur significantly, catalyzing a 7% uptick in ticket sales and an additional gain of $9,346.

My improv skills significantly improved while working with El Paso Comic Strip, a renowned local comedy club. Here, our team created engaging on-the-spot performances, which lifted audience participation by 13%, translating to approximately 372 more interactive members per show. Utilizing several improvisation tactics, we maintained solid and dynamic performances, captivating audiences across Texas.

Applying my skills and experience to the Plaza Theatre Performing Arts Center would honor my passion for dynamic storytelling. I aspire to contribute meaningfully to your current season by bringing characters to life in a way that resonates with the community. Looking forward to discussing how my character analysis, blocking, and improv skills could further enhance the diverse productions at The Plaza Theatre Performing Arts Center. Thank you.

Hugo Fernandes

• Were you given a central role in a show that sold out, garnered massive positive ratings, or hit record revenues in your community? Mention them in your actor cover letter, using numbers to solidify the successes (for example, a 7% uptick in ticket sales translating to $9,346 additional revenue).

Acting for Beginners Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your Acting for Beginners cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Seattle, WA 98101 (123) 456-7890

Henry Robinson Northwest Casting, Inc. 123 Fictional Lane Seattle, WA 98101

When I discovered the opening for a background actor at Northwest Casting, Inc., I knew it was a perfect chance to leverage my unique skills in character awareness, facial expressions, and gesture and movement. Interacting with your produced films and witnessing the detailed performances from background actors, I’ve felt a familiarity with the compelling narratives you create. Coupled with your commitment to bringing stories to life, my acting experiences, spanning from community performances to a dedicated YouTube channel, have equipped me to contribute value to your incredible team.

Participating in local community theater productions offered me a rich environment to cultivate my character awareness proficiency. As a volunteer at Seattle Rep, my portrayal of diverse background characters adeptly complemented and enriched the leads’ performances, touching the audience’s emotions. Most notably, my contribution to our “To Kill a Mockingbird” production was linked to a significant 9% increase in audience engagement.

My YouTube channel, boasting 2,634 subscribers, showcases my expertise in manifesting realistic characterizations through facial expressions. By crafting a series of mini-dramas that captivate viewers, I maintain an impressive average viewer retention rate of 68%, demonstrating my credibility and commitment to the art of acting.

Further, volunteering as a movement and body language instructor at the local community center sharpened my understanding of gesture and movement. I utilized various movement techniques to tell stories without words, teaching the community members. I received a satisfaction rate of 88% from over 118 participants during my teaching period, many of whom had never experienced acting classes before.

Embracing the chance to bring my skills to Northwest Casting, Inc. I’m eager to channel my passion for acting to enrich each scene I appear in. My dedication to character development, facial expressions, and expressive physicality will only strengthen the exceptional stories that unfold on your sets. Attached is my resume and a link to my YouTube channel for your reference. I look forward to discussing how I could add depth and detail to your projects through my work as a background actor. Thank you.

Gabriel Santos

• Similarly, reflect the company’s culture (whether formal or casual) in the tone and language of your acting for beginners cover letter. That paints a picture of an actor who will excel in the role and seamlessly blend into the team and environments.

Related cover letter examples

• Acting resume
• Flight attendant
• Entry level

How to Format an Acting Cover Letter

As an actor, you adapt to different roles on a near-constant basis! You’ll want to do the same with your cover letter by tailoring it to each job description . Think of every job as a new character you’re taking on to show your alignment with the job role.

You don’t want to pitch your on-stage acting abilities to a job description that’s calling for a voice actor. Show the recruiter that you’ve done your homework and care enough about the job to pay attention to the details!

Acting cover letter greeting and introduction

You learn each character’s name, so you should do the same with the person who will read your cover letter! It shows you value them, and they’ll be more likely to pay attention to your application.

Follow that polite greeting with an opener that tells the reader why you want the job and why they would want you for the job. Support your interest in the role with a couple of qualifying traits showing what makes you a good fit.

Don’t forget to hook the reader by implying you have much more to offer! That way, they’ll be hooked into reading what comes next.

Just don’t write an opener with no greeting, no actual qualifications, and no real hook:

Hi I’m really good at acting and my voice is super good. I want to work for your company so let me know if I can start soon because I’d be great for your open role.

Instead, look at the difference it makes when providing specific qualifying abilities and experiences in your opener! Mr. Robinson is sure to read on after this:

Now you’re ready to break a leg!

When I discovered the opening for a background actor at Northwest Casting, Inc., I knew it was a perfect chance to leverage my unique skills in character awareness, facial expressions, and gesture and movement. Interacting with your produced films and witnessing the detailed performances from background actors, I’ve felt a familiarity with the compelling narratives you create. Coupled with your commitment to bringing stories to life, my acting experiences, spanning from community performances to a dedicated YouTube channel, have equipped me to contribute value to your incredible team.

Acting cover letter body

The body of your cover letter is sort of like your acting audition. Each paragraph should demonstrate one prime example of why you’re the actor for the job.

Your body paragraphs show off how skilled you are within the acting sphere—and how you’ve already made a difference there. When did you boost studio ratings with your incredible on-stage moves? How did you revolutionize an educational cartoon character with your fun voice-acting abilities?

And you’ll need to back those success stories with numbers! Quantifiable data is the missing puzzle piece that takes your experiences from “cool” to “Wow!”

Think of metrics like performance ratings, audience increase percentages, and profit increases for your venue. Tailor this data around what each job description emphasizes to reinforce your alignment with the role!

Example of a well-done body paragraph

Plying my vocal skills a WXYT-FM – 97.1 The Ticket, I contributed significantly to their content creation, utilizing my voice control to portray diverse characters across multiple genres. My work brought about a 13% increase in listenership, translating into an approximate amplification in the audience base of 3197 listeners. Furthermore, my abilities in voice projection played a vital role in the success of a local theater production, “Remembering Motown,” facilitating a 9% boost in ticket sales and pulling in an additional $28,673 in revenue.

Acting cover letter closing

As you know, a good script doesn’t conclude without a good ending—and neither should your cover letter! Don’t pass up the opportunity to use your closing paragraph as a spot to sprinkle in a few more qualifying traits.

You should also reinforce your alignment with the company values and include a call to action. You do want that callback, after all!

Having invited the reader to contact you for more details, thank them for their time. You can say thanks in the closing paragraph or use it as your professional signoff.

If you don’t use a thank-you as your signoff, stick with a classic, professional signature line and conclude with your real, full name.

But don’t write like this. What is this closer with no real name, qualifications, or connection with the company or studio?

So there you have it, plenty of stuff I’ve done that shows I’m a great actor. Can I work for you?

This closer is way better since it formally connects with the venue’s culture and values while providing solid examples of alignment with those traits:

We’ve got a winner!

Applying my skills and experiences to the Plaza Theatre Performing Arts Center would honor my passion for dynamic storytelling. I aspire to contribute meaningfully to your current season by bringing characters to life in a a way that resonates with the community. Looking forward to discussing how my character analysis, blocking, and improv skills could further enhance the diverse productions and The Plaza Theatre performing Arts Center. Thank you.

Do that research! Customize your cover letter for each open job role by studying the job description , doing your homework on the organization, and using language that reflects their vibe.

Head back to the job description and company site. Do they have a list of skills under the job requirements that you can use for inspiration? (Most job ads do!) Work buzzwords like “physical fitness” or “character awareness” into your cover letter’s paragraphs to show you’re on the same page.

Just like your costume on stage or your persona behind the mic, each set of needs is different! You might have extraordinary posture, facial expression, or vocal skills that set you apart. Emphasize whichever of those overlaps with the job description !

Acting cover letter examples

Acting roles are competitive and getting noticed in this industry can be really tough.

So along with the right headshots, classes and a good CV, you also need a cover letter that reads like a flawlessly captivating script.

But you’re an actor, not a writer, so how do you go about creating such a strong application? Well, you can start by checking out our step-by-step guide and acting cover letter examples below.

CV templates 

Acting cover letter example 1

Build your CV now 

Acting cover letter example 2

Acting cover letter example 3

These 3 Acting cover letter example s should provide you with a good steer on how to write your own cover letter, and the general structure to follow.

Our simple step-by-step guide below provides some more detailed advice on how you can craft a winning cover letter for yourself, that will ensure your CV gets opened.

How to write an Acting cover letter

A simple step-by-step guide to writing your very own winning cover letter.

Write your cover letter in the body of an email/message

When you send a cover letter with a job application, you should always write your message into the body of your email – or the body of the messaging system if you are sending via a job website.

Why do this?

Simply because you want to get your message seen as soon as the recruiter opens your application.

If you attach the cover letter as a separate item, this means the recipient will have to open it before they can read it – slowing down the process and potentially causing frustration along the way.

So, write your cover note in the body of your email/message to ensure you make an instant connection with the reader.

Start with a friendly greeting

To build an instant connection with the recruiter reading your cover letter, start with a warm greeting.

It should be friendly but not casual – keeping it professional at all times.

• Hi, hope you’re well
• Hi [insert recruiter name]
• Hi [insert department/team name]

Avoid overly formal greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very traditional companies.

How to find the contact’s name?

Addressing the recruitment contact by name is an excellent way to start building a strong relationship. If it is not listed in the job advert, try these methods to find it.

• Check out the company website and look at their  About page. If you see a hiring manager, HR person or internal recruiter, use their name. You could also try to figure out who would be your manager in the role and use their name.
• Head to LinkedIn , search for the company and scan through the list of employees. Most professionals are on LinkedIn these days, so this is a good bet.

Identify the role you are applying for

Once you’ve opened up the cover letter with a warm greeting to start building a relationship, it is time to identify which role you want to apply for.

Recruiters are often managing multiple vacancies, so you need to ensure you apply to the correct one.

Be very specific and use a reference number if you can find one.

• I am interested in applying for the position of *Acting role* with your company.
• I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 406f57393)
• I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
• I saw your advert for a junior project manager on Reed and would like to apply for the role.

See also: CV examples – how to write a CV – CV profiles

Highlight your suitability

The bulk of your cover letter should be focused around highlighting your suitability for the job you are applying to.

Doing this will show the recruiter that you are suitable candidate and encourage them to open your CV.

The best way to do this, is by studying the job advert you are applying to, and find out what the most important skills and knowledge are.

Once you know the most important requirements, you then need to highlight your matching skills to the recruiter. In a few sentences, tell them exactly why you are a good fit for the job and what you can offer the company.

Keep it short and sharp

When sending a job application to a recruiter or hiring manager, it is important to remember that they will normally be very busy and pushed for time.

Therefore, you need to get you message across to them quickly (in a matter of seconds ideally). So, keep your cover letter short and to-the-point. A long waffling cover letter will overwhelm recruiters when they are running through hundreds of emails in there inbox, but a concise one will get their attention.

So, keep your cover letter to just a few sentences long, and save the extensive detail for your CV.

Sign off professionally

To finish off your cover note, add a professional signature to the bottom, stating your important contact details and information.

This not only provides recruiters with multiple means of contacting you, but it also adds a nice professional appearance to the cover letter, which shows that you know how to conduct yourself in the workplace.

Include the following points;

• A friendly sign off – e.g. “Warm regards”
• Your full name
• Phone number (one you can answer quickly)
• Email address
• Profession title
• Professional social network – e.g. LinkedIn

Here is an example signature;

Warm regards,

Aaron Smith Customer service professional 075557437373 [email protected] LinkedIn

Quick tip : To save yourself from having to write your signature every time you send a job application, you can save it within your email drafts, or on a separate document that you could copy in.

What to include in your Acting cover letter

So, what type of information should you write about in your Acting cover letter?

The specifics will obviously depend on your profession and the jobs you are applying to, but these are the key areas you should be covering.

• Your industry experience – Tell recruiters the types of companies you have been working for and the roles you have held in the past.
• Your qualifications – Highlight your most important relevant qualifications to show employers you are qualified to do the roles you are applying for.
• The impact you have made – Demonstrate the positive impact you have made for employers in previous jobs. Have you saved money? Improved processes? Made customers happy?
• Your reasons for moving – Employers will want to know why you are leaving your current/previous role, so provide them with a brief explanation here.
• Your availability – When will you be able to start a new job ? Check your current contract to find out your notice period if you are in a position already.

Acting cover letter templates

Copy and paste these Acting cover letter templates to get a head start on your own.

I am excited to apply for the role of Elle Woods at your esteemed production company. With a distinguished career spanning four years, both on and off the West End, I possess the skills and experience to deliver an excellent lead role performance.

As a trained ArtsEd graduate, I have demonstrated my versatility in portraying various roles, captivating audiences with my acting, singing, and dancing abilities. Notably, in the lead role of Éponine in the Les Misérables UK Tour, I performed in over 100 shows across 32 cities, receiving a nomination for “Best Lead Performance” at the prestigious 2022 UK Theatre Awards. By actively promoting the show on social media and local radio, I contributed to a significant 19% increase in ticket sales. Moreover, my experience as a singer and dancer on Star Cruises showcased my ability to entertain and engage audiences, performing 12 shows weekly. As a freelance commercial singer and dancer, I collaborated with renowned brands such as L’Oreal and Adidas, showcasing my adaptability and professionalism in diverse projects.

I am eager to bring my talent and dedication to your highly anticipated production of Legally Blonde. I am available for an interview and audition at your earliest convenience.

Kind regards,

Laura Volski ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

I am writing to apply for an audition at 3rd Street Theatre Company as it presents an extraordinary opportunity for me to kickstart my career in the touring theatre industry.

Since graduating with honours last year from the renowned acting program at the Central School of Speech and Drama, I have honed my craft through rigorous training in acting techniques, vocal projection, and character development. During my studies I earned notable show credits, including standout performances as Romeo in “Romeo and Juliet” and Stanley in “A Streetcar Named Desire” with the latter receiving positive reviews in The Daily Telegraph and the London Arts Magazine.

Additionally, my flair for improvisation and quick thinking led me to be awarded the “Best Improvisation” prize at the 2022 Intercollegiate Drama Festival.

I am eager to bring my fresh perspective, creativity, and accolades to your productions. I am available for an interview and audition from August.

Jack Hindson ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Hope you’re well.

I am writing to apply for the role of Esther in Cloud Productions upcoming adaptation of “Seventh Hour”, where my successful 30-year career playing a range of female leads in on screen period dramas would make me an asset to the cast.

Notably, my portrayal of complex characters, such as a Sheila, tormented detective in “Shadows of Deception,” earned critical acclaim and a 98% audience approval rating. Throughout my career, I have seamlessly adapted to diverse genres, from period dramas like “Elegance & Eloquence” to high-octane action films like “The Pursuit of Justice,” showcasing my versatility and range and resulting in over 20 award nominations and 7 wins, including “Best Actress” at the National Film Awards. Moreover, my professionalism and collaborative spirit have earned me accolades from co-stars and directors alike, fostering seamless working relationships on set.

I am available for an interview and audition at your earliest convenience.

Aisling Clarke ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Writing an impressive cover letter is a crucial step in landing a Acting job, so taking the time to perfect it is well worth while.

By following the tips and examples above you will be able to create an eye-catching cover letter that will wow recruiters and ensure your CV gets read – leading to more job interviews for you.

Good luck with your job search!

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Acting cover letter example

Pay and job outlook

Why actors need a cover letter, cover letter header, cover letter signature / sign-off.

Perhaps no other field requires as much self-promotion as acting does. You need good headshots, a great resume, and ideally your own website, with links to clips of your work. But if you want to be famous, a star of the screen, you’re going to need something in between. And that’s an outstanding cover letter.

With a small number of jobs and a huge pool of candidates, it’s your challenge to make an irresistible pitch to employers looking for actors. You will need a great, in-depth resume, but you’ll also need a dazzling cover letter.  Resume.io is here to help, with resources that include more than 180 occupation-specific writing guides, supported by cover letter examples.

What you’re reading now is a guide on how to create one for acting, along with an acting cover letter example. What we’ll cover here:

• Actor's pay and job outlook
• Why a cover letter is a crucial part of any job application
• How a cover letter is structured and organized
• How to write each cover letter section for optimal impact: header, introduction, body, conclusion and sign-off
• Cover letter writing psychology
• How to avoid potentially fatal mistakes in writing and formatting
• Why it’s best to start with a professional cover letter template.

Here is exactly how you can write a cover letter that will stand out from the crowd, and help you land that interview.

About acting 

It’s been said that the most important quality in an actor is honesty, and if you can fake that, you’ve got it made. But it’s a steep uphill climb to becoming a successful actor. The job is not as easy as it looks, the competition is intense, and you’re at a big disadvantage if you don’t have the right connections.

Still, all actors got their start somewhere. Harrison Ford played a few bit parts in the 1960s, but he found he could make a better living as a carpenter. It wasn’t until he was 35 years old that he was cast as Han Solo in “Star Wars” — a part turned down by Al Pacino and Christopher Walken.

Acting can be an avenue to mind-boggling wealth — Jerry Seinfeld, for one, is said to be worth over $860 million, in part from being paid $1 million per episode of his hit TV show “Seinfeld.” But for every Seinfeld, there are tens of thousands of would-be actors waiting tables and auditioning for roles that don’t even pay.

The median pay for working actors in 2021, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , was just $23.48 an hour. That’s hardly a path to a mansion in Beverly Hills, but you could live on it.

Fortunately, the job outlook is above the occupational average, with 8% growth expected between 2021 and 2031. In 2021, there were 50,600 acting jobs in the United States, with 4,100 more expected by 2031. As a comparison, in the same time and place there were 833,100 lawyers!

If there are any actors out there who don’t have big personalities, they probably aren’t getting much work. This is not a field for wallflowers or shrinking violets. Good actors are larger-than-life characters, brimming with enthusiasm, passion and talent. 

An actor's cover letter is your way to capture on paper your biggest asset, the force of your personality. Writing a good cover letter is an exercise in creativity, and hopefully that’s one of your longest long suits. 

A strong resume is also essential, but a resume can be a somewhat dry recitation of past achievements and job skills. A cover letter, on the other hand, is a personal appeal to another human being who has the power to offer you a job. It’s like an audition in writing.

Here are some of the purposes of a cover letter:

• To establish a personal connection to a casting director or other hiring manager
• To highlight your experience, skills and qualifications for the job
• To convey a sense of your personality, passion and sense of humor
• To convince your target that they need to call you in for an interview or audition.

A cover letter should be one page only — 200 to 400 words of rich, original, colorful writing that makes the reader say, “I’ve got to meet this person.”

Even gardeners and grill cooks need cover letters, and in fact, with very few exceptions, every job application should include a cover letter. For actors, who are valued for their originality and creativity, a cover letter is absolutely crucial because the very way you write it is a demonstration of your “voice” and your personality. And those are direct reflections of your qualifications for the job.

Having said that, there are some employers that don’t want to receive a cover letter, or perhaps their job application website doesn’t allow you to upload one. In such cases you have no choice but to leave it out. However, if you have the option of sending an email to your target, there’s no rule that says your email can’t fulfill the basic functions of a cover letter.

Best format for an acting cover letter

Every screenplay has a structure — for example, the classic three-act formula of set-up, conflict and resolution. Cover letters also have a structure, and you ignore it at your peril. 

Here are the basic elements:

• The cover letter header
• The greeting
• The introduction
• The letter body
• The conclusion
• The signature / sign-off

Below is an acting cover letter example that you can customize for the position and employer.

Dear Ms. Fletcher,

Having performed in London’s West End for the past eight years in Wicked, Mamma Mia and The Lion King, I recently relocated to New York, where my life’s ambition is to appear on Broadway.

I understand that you are considering a few changes in the Wicked cast and I would like to throw my witch’s hat into the ring. I played Nessarose for two seasons and was the Elphaba standby actor for 18 months. I would love to play Elphaba’s half-sister again — this time as one of your cast members!

I attended the prestigious Sylvia Young Theatre School, and after my first appearance in a cereal commercial at age 9, I have been acting ever since. I completed a one-year Musical Theatre course at the Royal Academy of Music, and went into my first role in the ensemble and swing crew of Mamma Mia.

Performing in the Lion King at the wonderful Lyceum Theatre in Covent Garden was my breakthrough acting role as Rafiki. The contrast between the eccentric and selfless mandrill and the self-centered and bitter witch Nessarose could not be greater. But both roles present the protagonist in the best light, and were integral to my growth as an actor..

I have dozens of press cuttings praising my Nessa performances, and I would also love to send you a show tape with some of my favorite moments. I am not sure that Boq will love me on Broadway any more than he loved me at the Apollo, but I live in vain hope.

Now that I’m settled in New York, my availability at any time is secured. I hope for the chance to audition for your wonderful production. I promise that it will be a magical experience!

Deanna Smith

Now let’s look at the desired ingredients for each cover letter component.

If you could put only two words at the top of a page of your head shots, what would they be? Your name! 

The purpose of the header (formerly called a letterhead) is to lead with your name and contact info, including address, phone and email. For obvious reasons, you want to make it easy for employers to figure out how to contact you. 

Your cover letter may be unorthodox in many ways, but it’s still a business letter. It’s not an email where your contact info is unimportant because your correspondent can just hit “Reply.” Your letter may be printed out or forwarded to a team of decision makers, and there should be no mystery about how to get in touch with you. Your name should generally be the first and largest element on the page. You’re not in the business of selling widgets, you’re in the business of selling yourself.

Headers also give you the opportunity to be creative with design and display. You may opt for a photo, a splash of color or other elements that will offset the blocks of black text below and give your letter an eye-pleasing look. Don’t overlook the importance of white space within and below the header, giving the reader some breathing room and creating a sense of visual balance.

It’s important to use the same fonts, font sizes, formatting and overall design in your resume and your cover letter. 

You don’t want to send a resume in Helvetica, using boldface for emphasis and red accent colors, with a cover letter written in Arial that uses italics for emphasis and green accent colors. 

Like the phantom twin girls in “The Shining,” your resume and cover letter should be a visual match. If your recipient looks at your resume and cover letter side by side, it should be obvious that these were prepared by the same person. It shows that you’re organized, you pay attention to detail, and you’ve put some thought into creating a visual brand, a look and feel unique to you.

Aim of the cover letter header : Create a striking visual impression off the top with your name and contact information, distinctively original but matched to your resume design.

Cover letter greeting

This is the line in your actor's cover letter that says “Dear Mr. (or Ms.) Xxxxxx,” or some variation thereof. Given your field, you may opt for a more creative way of addressing your recipient, but beware of being too wacky.  

It’s almost always best to address an individual by name in your greeting, and naturally you want to identify the appropriate person, spell the name correctly and get the gender right. People like to see their own names in print, and it shows good initiative and attention to detail on your part if you’ve gone to the trouble to figure out who needs to be reading your letter.

If your web searches can’t determine the name of the main decision maker, it may be worth calling the company to inquire. But some casting directors prefer to remain anonymous behind the scenes. If that’s the case, respect their wishes and find a way to address your greeting to a broader team. For example, “Dear Hamlet Casting Director,” or just “Dear Casting Director,” is just fine. Don't even think about either of these impersonal, old-fashioned greetings addressing nobody in particular: " To Whom It May Concern " or " Dear Sir or Madam. "

Aim of the cover letter greeting : Establish a direct personal connection with the casting director or anyone else needing to read your letter, addressing that person by name if possible.

Cover letter introduction

Open with an attention-grabbing paragraph of one or two sentences that state your job objective and offer some opening hints about your qualifications to knock this role out of the ballpark. Since you’re in the drama business, make it dramatic. For any actor, the cardinal sin is to be boring, so use language that’s bold, energetic, confident and intriguing.

Aim of the cover letter introduction : Your opening lines are so captivating that the reader is compelled to continue on.

Here’s a greeting and introduction idea from our acting cover letter sample.

Cover letter body 

Movies sometimes start with 10 minutes of action — think “Rocky” or any James Bond movie — but screenwriters say you soon reach a point where you need to “start the engine” of your story. This needs to happen in the body of your actor's cover letter, which consists of two or three central paragraphs where you make your primary pitch. 

You might focus the first part of the body on your experience — for example, your education and training, the roles you’ve played, the plaudits you’ve received. Use facts and figures wherever possible, reporting how long your play ran, the budget of your big commercial, or whatever else is appropriate. 

In the second part of the body, you can pivot to talking less about past accomplishments and more about your overall qualifications — your versatility, passion, humor, improvisation, voice talents and other skills that make you an outstanding actor.

Aim of the cover letter body : Showcase your acting successes in quantifiable terms, while pitching the attributes most likely to shine in the role you are seeking.

Our acting cover letter sample illustrates what you might include in the middle part.

Cover letter conclusion

Wrap up your actor's cover letter with an enthusiastic close that both summarizes what you’ve said before and issues a call to action. You would like to call the casting director next week, you would be delighted to be called for an audition, or you simply look forward to a reply. 

Let your target know that you consider yourself a serious candidate for the job and are eagerly anticipating a response. Make it hard for your correspondent to set your letter aside and never do anything about it.

Aim of the cover letter conclusion : End on a confident, optimistic note, stating or implying that you expect further contact with the casting director.

Below is the closing section of our acting cover letter example.

Sign off with a “Sincerely” or something similar, and type your name. You don’t need a physical signature unless you’re sending out a printed copy of your letter.

The psychology of writing persuasively

Writing is sometimes categorized as informative, entertaining or persuasive. The beauty of an actor’s cover letter is that it can be all three. You’re informing readers about your qualifications, entertaining them with your wit, and doing your best to persuade them that they absolutely have to meet you in person.

Never forget that you’re writing to a human being, and humans have both heads and hearts. You should find a mix between appealing to both the rational and the emotional components of your correspondent’s psyche. Some cover letters fail over a question of tone. Do you need a healthy ego to be an actor? Absolutely. Do you want to come across as arrogant, presumptuous and superior? Absolutely not.

Consider the employer you’re writing to, and consider your position relative to the project. Put yourself in the shoes of the person you’re writing to, and try to imagine how your pitch will be received. If you were the decision maker, would you want to hire the person who wrote this letter?

Cover letter errors to avoid

We all make mistakes. But please don’t make these:

• Typos, misspellings and bad grammar and punctuation . Sloppiness is not an attractive quality in any occupation, and errors in English are often cited as the top disqualifier for resumes and cover letters. If you’re not a great writer, find someone who is to edit your letter.  
• Clichés, word bloat and fluff . Possibly the most timeworn cover letter cliché ever is “I am writing to….” But if your correspondent is reading a letter that you have obviously written, then why would you need to say you are writing? Avoid clichés, as the joke goes, “like the plague.” One simple (though not easy) test is to write a letter that doesn’t contain any language you’ve ever read anywhere else.  
• Irrelevant braggadocio about how you’re so interesting . Do you want to personalize your pitch by saying you have a killer Ping-Pong serve and you love Rocky Road ice cream? Who cares? As an actor, you have a fair amount of leeway to promote your distinctive personality, but never forget that your objective is to convince the recipient of your letter that you are a great actor, not that you’ve built a replica of Noah’s ark out of toothpicks in your garage.  
• A file format nobody can read . In researching this guide, we stumbled across some advice that said, and we quote: “5. Proofread your résumé.” Say … what? Now, it’s true that the word “resume” is sometimes spelled with accents on the E’s: résumé. But between the writer and the publishing system, this word was turned into garble that totally undermined the writer’s point. This is an unforgivable breakdown in fonts and formatting, and you obviously can’t afford to make an error like this. And even worse, you may submit a cover letter using your preferred text editor and file format on your old computer that your recipient can’t even open.

Use a professional cover letter template

The best way to sidestep any errors in fonts, formatting or file types is to use a professional cover letter template like those we offer at resume.io. How big should your margins be? What fonts should you use? How much white space do you need? And how do you save and send the document?

Key takeaways for an actor's cover letter

• Some actors are capable of generating fabulous wealth, but the median income for this profession in the U.S. is less than $24 an hour. You've chosen a field that's exceptionally competitive, even though the 10-year job growth forecast is robust. So you need a superior pitch to stand out from the crowd.
• An outstanding resume and cover letter are your ticket to the ball, and you need to follow the guidelines for how to prepare these correctly.
• Learn the structure and components of a cover letter and follow them.
• Never be mundane, never be boring, and use an appropriate tone that showcases your creativity without ever crossing a line into arrogance.
• Use the field-tested cover letter templates and builder tool at resume.io, along with sample cover letters and professional guidance, to help find your own happy ending.

If you’re looking for additional inspiration for cover letter writing, you can check out some of our other cover letter examples and guides:

• Production assistant cover letter example
• Assistant producer cover letter example
• Theater cover letter example
• Fashion cover letter example
• Freelancer cover letter example
• Translator cover letter sample
• Journalism cover letter example
• Photography cover letter example
• Modeling cover letter sample
• Artist cover letter example

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Home / Cover Letter Examples / Acting Cover Letter Sample

Acting Cover Letter Sample and Tips from HR Pros

Acting may be one of the most exciting professions. However, to get a job as an actor, you will still need the good old set of a resume and cover letter. A resume will explain that you have all the necessary skills and experience for the project you are applying for. And a cover letter will serve as a professional introduction and a way to get the casting manager’s attention.

Today, we are looking into how to write a cover letter when applying for an acting job . Here’s what we'll cover:

• Why you need a cover letter when applying for a role
• What to include in your cover letter and in what succession
• Tips for writing an effective and memorable cover letter
• Cover letter example that you can use as a base for writing your own cover letter

And if you are looking for a step by step guide on writing an acting resume, check out our post - Acting Resume Sample and Tips from HR Pros .

Let’s get started.

Why do you need a cover letter?

A resume and headshot are an absolute must when applying for an acting role. However, they alone may not be enough for a successful application.

Casting directors get tens and even hundreds of similar-looking applications per day. And it’s important to have something on your side that will catch their eye. A personalized cover letter is a great way to make your application stand out, explain your motivation and provide extra space for making your case as the best candidate for the job.

If you want to include a cover letter with your application but are not sure where to start, you’ve come to the right place. Below, we unpack what your cover letter should and shouldn’t include.

What to include in your cover letter?

There are several important information points to include in your cover letter.

Let’s start at the beginning.

Contact details

First, at the top of the page, add your name, phone number and email. There is typically no need to add your address. However, make sure that the contact information you add here is complete and up-to-date so that you can be instantly contacted by the casting director. If you are represented by an agent, you should add their contact information here too, preceded by “represented by.”

It’s always best to start your cover letter by addressing the casting director by name. If you don’t know their name, there are several ways to find it out. First, you can take another look at the job description or casting call and see if it mentions who is responsible for casting. Second, you can check the website of the production or project you are applying for and see if they have this information on their page. Social media can also be a helpful tool in your search.

Addressing the casting manager by name is a good way to get their attention and make your cover letter stand out.

Body of the letter

This is the main part of your cover letter. In it, there are several key points that you need to make.

First, you need to explain why you are writing and what position you are applying for. It’s good to include something memorable here too. For instance, mention one of your achievements or what inspired you to apply for this specific role.

In the next paragraph or two, expand on why you will be the best person for the role. You can mention the previous work you’ve done that has given you the experience and skill set necessary for this specific role.

Make sure to read the job description carefully. This way, you will be able to address the specific concerns the casting director may have.

Explain what has inspired you to apply and why you want this role. This will demonstrate your commitment to the role and your willingness to go the extra mile for it.

Complete your cover letter with a call to action. You can ask for a chance to show your acting skills in an audition or invite further questions on the part of the casting director.

Finally, you should add a sign-off at the end of your email. You can use any of the popular options such as:

• Kind regards
• Best regards
• All the best and others

You can also have your own personalized sign-off. Make sure, however, to not make your letter sound too informal.

You can also repeat your contact details here: name, phone number, email and a link to your website or portfolio (if you have one).

Tips for writing an acting cover letter

There are several best practices for writing an acting cover letter.

First, make sure to tailor your cover letter to the specific role you are applying for. It’s a really bad idea to “mass produce” cover letters and send them to multiple prospects. The main job of the cover letter is to “hook” the caring director into reading more of your application. Without customized content, this will be impossible to do and the casting director may not even read your application till the end.

Second, keep your cover letter short and simple. Acting is a creative profession -but your cover letter should be practical and to the point. You should methodically make your case that you will be the best choice for this specific role. It’s best to avoid generalities, be as specific as possible and not let your letter drag on.

Use concrete references and examples from your previous acting work to illustrate your professional capabilities. If you mention that you are hardworking, back it up by an example from a role where you had to put in a lot of extra hours. If you write that you are a good drama actor, mention your best drama role or a favorable review that you have received.

Acting cover letter example

Summing things up

A cover letter should be a key part of your application for an acting job. Together with your resume, it should highlight your skills and abilities and emphasize why you would be the best candidate for this specific role.

Here are the main takeaways:

• Your cover letter should have the following key sections: contact details, introduction, main body and a sign-off.
• If possible, address the casting director by name. Take a look at the job description, the project’s website and social media to learn the name of the casting director.
• Keep your letter short and to the point. Focus on what makes you the best person for the job and avoid any generalities. Your cover letter shouldn’t be over a page long.
• Keep your cover letter specific and use examples from your previous jobs to illustrate your skill set.

Learn more about how to write a cover letter .

Acting Cover Letter Sample

A perfect cover letter wins you tons of job opportunities and springboards your career in a blink of an eye. It allows you to contact the best of the hiring agencies and reach the employer of your dream. Always wanted to learn how to write a cover letter? 

Contact an online cover letter writing service or check Skiilhub's great cover letters to master the art of cover letter writing. To make the job easier (pun intended), check the article below and find:

• An acting cover letter sample;
• The structure and cover letter format ; 
• How to write an acting cover letter;
• Examples of cover letter sections. 

Cover Letter for Acting [Example]

Before writing a cover letter for an acting job, think of the cover letter format first. Apply the rules of structure and keep your cover letter sections readable and well-composed. Check an acting cover letter example written according to the cover letter writing rules below. 

Gina Bhaduri

4483 Nelson Street, 

Keewatin, Ontario

807-473-0053

[email protected] 

Date : 28.06.22

Mrs. Greenberg

Forsight Pictures

1763 Hamilton Street, 

Eastend, Saskatchewan 

Dear Mrs. Greenberg! 

I am excited to apply for the recently opened role of a leading actress in the stage adaptation of ‘White Teeth’ by Zadie Smith. I believe that seven years of performing in the filming industry provided me with outstanding experience and superb acting skills. 

When acting in the screen adaptation of ‘Pearls of the Lost Seas,’ I have learned Meisner’s technique that allowed my acting expressiveness to win numerous accolades. My outstanding time management skills and self-discipline contributed to the early distribution of my cinematographic work. In the end, the film has grossed a greater total than our team had expected.

I believe that my natural expressiveness, combined with a Master’s Degree in Film & Theater Studies, make me the best fit for the acting job at Forsight Pictures. Also, my Bangladeshi background and strong acting abilities will allow me to relate to the character and convey her in the best way.

Thank you for your time and consideration! Please contact me by phone or email anytime. 

Kind regards, Gina

Acting Cover Letter Template

A modern cover letter requires an applicant to follow a detailed cover letter template. Whether you apply for a supporting role or need a job application for playing in theatrical plays, follow the cover letter formatting rules. 

• Structure . Up to 5 paragraphs;
• Font . Official and formal fonts like Arial or Georgia;
• Spacing . Keep it 1.15; 
• Margins . 1 inch is enough. 

Ultimate Guide on How to Write an Acting Cover Letter

Composing a great cover letter isn’t easy if you have no writing experience at all. Sure, improvisation works in acting, but does it work for winning a job interview? 

To nail that gorgeous career opportunity, use the guide on writing a cover letter sample in the chapter below. 

Our writers are here to help you with writing your acting cover letter fast and effectively. All you need to do is reach out for our resume writing services. 

A Cover Letter Format Always Matters

Great cover letter formatting turns your acting cover letter into a bold statement of your professional skills. Whether you’re involved in film distribution or production, the information you add to the cover letter should persuade the reader that you're a professional. 

The cover letter sections to add are:

• Date and Company Details;

Cover Letter Heading

All acting cover letter samples contain a heading. There, a hiring manager sees your personal data before reading your entire job application and learning about your acting skills. When you audition for the role, you always introduce yourself, right? The same happens in the Heading. Check the example below. 

Cover Letter Sample for Acting [Heading]

Check the elements and structure of a Heading in the cover letter example below. Avoid using the date in this section!

Jonathan Rose

1014 Heritage Drive,

Calgary, Alberta

705-6382-9355

[email protected] 

Date and Company Details on Cover Letter

A well-written Company Details section in a cover letter for acting ensures flawless contact with the HR department or agency. While the Date line includes a date when the letter was written, the Company Details will include the following: 

• The HR Manager’s name;
• The company address; 
• Email and phone number (optional). 

Example Cover Letter Acting [Date and Company Details]

To stand out among other employees and nail that once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, check acting cover letter examples when you decide to apply for the job position. 

Date : 25.04.22

Hiring Department

2334 Cork Street,

Guelph, Ontario

[email protected] 

Cover Letter Greeting

Think of a cover letter greeting as a formality that solves everything. A standard ‘Dear Hiring Department!’ or ‘Dear Mr/Mrs/Ms. Name !’ sounds far better than the old-fashioned ‘to whom it may concern.’ To be considered a great candidate for the job, keep your greeting formal. 

Cover Letter Example for Acting [Greeting]

For a recruiter to hire you, showcase your outstanding communication skills. In the nearest future of work , having a strong work ethic will let you build a career and ensure its rapid growth. Hence, use a well-written cover letter greeting. Check a sample acting cover letter below. 

‘Dear HR Department!

Dear Mr/Mrs/Ms. Brown!’

Need professional resume help? Resume writing services near me are a solution! They are in Houston, Chicago, Nyc, Dallas, Seattle, San Diego, Phoenix, Austin, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Washington DC, Charlotte, San Antonio, Columbus, Kansas, Minneapolis, Indianapolis, Philadelphia, Jacksonville, Detroit. We are in near you in any city you need!

What to Include in an Acting Cover Letter [Body]

Once you google ‘cover letter examples acting,’ you’ll find that the body of the cover letter for acting is a place where you mention your accomplishments. Start your job application with a catchy opening, mention your experience, and list your skills and talents. Persuade the recruiter that you’re the best fit for the role. 

Acting Cover Letter Sample [Body]

Your main answer to ‘How to write a cover letter for acting?’ is ‘With a note of persuasion.’ 

‘My objectives for contacting your company are simple: I like your business mission and values. I believe that my professional strengths like acting talent and vast experience in the ad industry will help me convey the message in your company’s ad.’ 

Closing Paragraph for Cover Letter

A standard talent agency will assist you in getting hired. However, they want to see a professional with multiple skills. When sending an acting cover letter to agents, end the cover letter with a closing paragraph to showcase your communication and interpersonal skills. Restate your interest in the position and add a postscript if necessary. 

Acting Cover Letter Example [Closing]

A traditional acting cover letter template will include a strong ending. Again, the closing paragraph maximizes your chances of landing the job interview, as it is a statement of your interpersonal skills. 

‘Thank you for your time! Please contact me by phone or email.’

Use Your Skills to Land a Job

Your skills are a direct way to build a career in acting. Meanwhile, your cover letter acting is a tool for beating the applicant tracking system (ATS). The latter is software that HR managers use to check the candidate’s skills and experience in the job application. To beat ATS, use keywords that indicate your hard and soft skills .

Hard Skills

• Memorization;
• Physical stamina;
• Creativity;
• Communication skills. 

Soft Skills

• Active listening;
• Strong work ethics.

Know Your Employer

Add professional keywords to your acting cover letter. Your cover letter is a key to the second act or a job interview in your ‘get-a-job’ play. While applying for the job position, use keywords that are most likely to capture the manager’s attention. For an acting job, use keywords like ‘drama,’ ‘theater,’ ‘cinema,’ ‘director,’ etc. 

Also, ensure your skills and talents align with the company’s mission and values. For instance, emphasize your theater gigs when applying for a role in a play. 

Final Thoughts

To shoot a perfect scene, a director will try different techniques and angles. The same goes for writing a cover letter. 

How to write an acting cover letter? 

• Start with an Introductory sentence;
• Express your emotions in the body sections. Mention your gratitude for the chance; 
• Write down your qualification and experience;
• Conclude your letter with a closing paragraph. 

To get a bot-beating acting cover letter sample, contact the best cover letter service! Our resume specialists will gladly help you win your dream job and move forward on your career ladder.

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How to Write a Cover Letter – Template and 9 Expert Tips

July 19, 2024

If you’re applying for a job, you’ll most likely need to prepare a polished résumé, to practice common interview questions , to request recommendations and references , and to write a cover letter. There are many types of cover letters out there. These include the application cover letter, the prospecting cover letter, and the career change cover letter. In this article, we’ll discuss the most common: the application cover letter, which is what you’ll need when trying to secure a new job (usually for a currently open position). Below, we’ll recommend how to write a cover letter (including how to end a cover letter) and provide a cover letter template to help you get started!

If you like our template and tips you may also want to view our 3 Great Cover Letter Examples for Any Job .

While we can provide a cover letter template to serve as a skeleton for your writing, you’ll need to flesh out your work with important details that are relevant to you, your experiences, and the prospective job at hand. As you begin drafting these details, it’s important to remember a few essential moves that are crucial as you learn how to write a cover letter:

1) Do your research

Before you send a cover letter to an employer, it’s imperative that you have a thorough understanding of the position you’re applying for , the job’s expectations and requirements, your future role within the hierarchy of the workplace, and the overall company culture. Knowledge of these items will help you determine which of your relevant skills and accolades you should include in your letter, the person or people to whom you should address your writing, and the tone and style of your cover letter. It will also help you decide what to leave out of your cover letter. Remember to only stick to items that are relevant to the position at hand!

2) Make particular connections

Use specificity when listing your accomplishments and describing your goals. Just as importantly, describe how you as a candidate are uniquely positioned to fill this position successfully. For instance, a general and less-connected sentence might say, “I have strong leadership skills.” But a detailed, job-specific sentence might be, “As a project manager for Waterscapes, I oversaw a team of twelve employees working on the development and implementation of River Clean Up 2024, which reduced plastic waste in our local water systems by 27%. This experience will inform my future work with your company as an Assistant Director of Eco-Initiatives.”

Think of each sentence as an opportunity to illustrate potential links between your previous work and your future career. Just like answering a “ tell me about yourself ” question in an interview, this is a moment to describe your past, present, and now your future in your hoped-for job.

How to Write a Cover Letter – Cover Letter Template (Continued)

3) add well-considered details.

Does your prospective job’s company have a strong online presence? Does your future employer have a LinkedIn profile that lists publications, affiliations, or specific awards and accolades? Do you have a personal connection with your employer or someone important at the company? If so, now is the time to utilize some of your social capital and make mention of these items. Doing so adds a personal touch and makes your cover letter more memorable. It also demonstrates your willingness to research and promote the company’s culture.

For instance, if you’re applying for a position at a language-learning app company and their motto is, “Communication for All,” this specific phrase could be used as you describe your passion for making language-learning accessible, regardless of the student’s background or income.

4) Be professional

Depending on the job for which you’re applying, your overall cover letter tone may vary. If you’re applying for a job as a copywriter for a quirky astrology start-up, you might be able to include fun details about horoscopes in your cover letter. If, on the other hand, it’s a position for a tenure-track professor job at a top research university, your tone will be much more formal and will include particulars about your contributions to the field.

Regardless of the job, you should always utilize a professional font (no Comic Sans!) and clear letterhead for readability to convey your seriousness about the position. You should also always try to convey sincerity in your writing. Additionally, make sure your reader knows you really want this job and will do your best at it if you’re hired.

5) Be confident!

Now is not the time to focus on your professional faults or limitations. Now is the time to promote yourself with abandon. Focus on your relevant work experience, your strengths, your accolades, and your willingness to learn and grow in this new job.

6) Brainstorm and draft

Do not rush your cover letter! This is a professional genre of communication that signifies your intentions to advance your career. It should be treated as a formal record of your employment history. As such, spend time cultivating your writing and trimming it so that it is rich, informative, candid and attractive.

Drafting also includes editing details like spelling and grammar checks – it has long been established that simple errors and problems with writing organization can cause employers to not take your work seriously. [i] Other small details can indicate your level of seriousness about yourself and this work. [ii] For instance, if you have a personal email address like “ [email protected] , you may want to think of creating and using a separate email address that is a little more professional, like “ [email protected] .”

7) Be direct

At all points in your cover letter, it’s essential to start with the punchline. Studies have demonstrated that readers and listeners often retain the first sentence of a paragraph or presentation before their attention starts to wane. [iii] As such, beginning with your main point and following with examples to support that point is the best way to grab your reader’s attention and ensure they fully absorb your meaning.

8) Pay attention to length

How long should a cover letter be? In most cases, a cover letter should not exceed one page of single-spaced writing (about 250 to 400 words, max). Remember that your prospective employer may be reading dozens of cover letters. He or she will probably not have the time nor inclination to read an unnecessarily long cover letter.

9) Finish on a promising note

As you consider how to end a cover letter, it’s important to focus on positivity and continuing dialogue with your prospective employer. Gesture toward future communication with closings like, “I look forward to your response,” or “I look forward to sharing more with you about my previous experience and qualifications for this position.”

Is it okay for me to use this cover letter template?

As you sit down to brainstorm how to write a cover letter, you may be wondering: How can I be original if I’m using a template? Aren’t I just copying what someone else has written? In short, the answer is: you can definitely use a cover letter template because templates are simply great starting points! You aren’t copying the content of the cover letter template. Rather, you are using the frame of the cover letter template to create your own original writing.

Templates are generative, meaning they are simply a beginning or prompt for your own writing and ideas to grow and flourish. Templates help you make writing moves you might not have otherwise considered. In the case of a cover letter template, using a model can be inspirational, helping you remember important details about your résumé and other job-related skills you may have forgotten. Finally, templates can combat writer’s block and help you organize your ideas into a coherent cover letter. Ultimately, “the aim of templates is not to stifle critical thinking but to…be direct about the key rhetorical moves” necessary for a piece of writing. [iv]

Below, you’ll find a cover letter template to get you started. Good luck!

Cover Letter Template

[ Your name ]

[ Your phone number ]

[E mail address ]

[ Optional: Your mailing address – you usually only need to include this if it’s a printed cover letter or if the employer will not be contacting you via email or phone. ]

Dear [ specific title and name of application recipient ],

As a [ your professional title ] with [ number ] years’ experience in [ field ], I am applying for the position of [ job title ]. To this position, I would bring [ highlight the 1-3 most important ways you will bring your specific skills to this job to benefit, develop, and serve the company or employer ].

[Body Paragraph 1: Using the skills you mention at the beginning of the letter, find 1-2 relevant, concrete examples from your previous work experiences to demonstrate how you’ll be a good fit for this new job ].

Because of [ skill or experience listed in first paragraph ], I can facilitate [ your company ] with [ specific requirement listed in the job description ]. Furthermore, my previous work with [ specific skill ] can additionally help [ specific job requirement ].

[Body Paragraph 2: Using the skills or experiences mentioned at the beginning of the letter, demonstrate how your current work will make you a good candidate for this job .]

In my current position as [ job title ] at [ current place of work ], I [ list specific responsibility with detail ] and am eager to continue to grow professionally at [ your company ] with [ similar work that will be required at this new job ]. At [ your company ], [ insert specific detail about the company culture, job requirements, or general news about the company ], I am eager to use my current skills as a [ insert your experience ] to help expand this work.

[Body Paragraph 3: Using the skills and experiences mentioned at the beginning of the letter, demonstrate how you hope to grow as a worker in this new position ].

I have always seen myself as a [ particular job title or responsibility ] and to be afforded the opportunity to do so at a company as prestigious as [ company name ], will let me develop [ specific professional skills ] while promoting the company’s mission to [ include part of the company’s mission ].

I am available to answer any questions you may have about my résumé or previous work experiences. Please don’t hesitate to reach out. Thank you so much for your time and consideration. I look forward to your response.

[ Your Name ]

How to Write a Cover Letter with Template – Works Cited

• [i] McDowell, Earl E. “Perceptions of the Ideal Cover Letter and Ideal Resume,” Journal of Technical Writing and Communication. Volume 17, Issue 2, April 1987.
• [ii] Martin-Lacroux, Christelle, and Alain Lacroux. “Do Employers Forgive Bad Spelling in Resumes?” Business and Professional Communication Quarterly, Volume 80, Issue 3. 26 October 2016.
• [iii] Garner, Joanna K. and Michael P. Alley. “How the design of presentation slides affects audience comprehension: A case for the assertion-evidence approach,”  International Journal of Engineering Education . Vol. 29, Issue 6, 2013.
• [iv] Graff, Gerard, and Cathy Birkenstein. They Say / I Say: The Moves That Matter in Academic Writing . W.W. Norton & Company, New York, 2006.

How to Write a Cover Letter with Template – Additional Resources

• How to Send a Condolence Message for a Coworker (with Samples)
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• How to Tell Your Boss You’re Quitting
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Posts Use Altered Image of Secret Service Agents Following Trump Shooting

By Alan Jaffe

Posted on July 15, 2024

Este artículo estará disponible en español en El Tiempo Latino .

The actions of the Secret Service at the Pennsylvania rally where former President Donald Trump was wounded in an assassination attempt are under review. But social media posts show an altered photo to falsely claim agents were smiling while moving Trump to safety. The original Associated Press photo shows the agents weren’t smiling.

President Joe Biden has called for an independent review and members of Congress plan an investigation into security measures taken — particularly by the Secret Service — at the July 13 rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where former President Donald Trump was wounded in an attempted assassination.

The Secret Service, whose duties include the protection of the president, is being questioned regarding preparations for the event, the size of the security perimeter and how the shooter, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks , 20, was able to get access to a rooftop near the rally stage. Crooks, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, was killed by Secret Service snipers at the scene. One man attending the rally was killed, and two others were injured during the shooting, Pennsylvania State Police said.

Video of the assassination attempt shows Trump addressing the crowd and reacting as a bullet strikes him in the ear, followed by Secret Service agents surrounding him and slowly helping him up and off the stage. Before being moved off the stage, Trump can be seen raising a fist in the air.

That image of Trump’s gesture has been altered, however, in social media posts to falsely show two of the agents smiling as they assisted Trump and to claim the incident was “STAGED.”

A July 14 Threads post shows the altered image with a caption that says, “Why are the secret service smiling? STAGED.”

A video in a July 14 Instagram post shows several photos from the shooting — including two versions of the image of Trump with his fist raised as the agents help him. One accurately shows the agents with concerned expressions on their faces, and the other, altered image shows them smiling . The narrator of the video claims, “Something doesn’t look right. … Is it fake?”

What is fake is the altered image of the Secret Service agents smiling.

The original image showing Trump raising his fist as the agents move him off the stage was taken by Associated Press photographer Evan Vucci, whose photos in the immediate aftermath of the shooting were published by the AP on July 14. The caption on the original photo reads: “Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci).”

The social media posts use a doctored version of that AP photo to make the false claim about the agents. The original photo shows the agents with concerned looks on their faces.

Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle issued a statement on July 15 about the actions of agents on the scene in Butler and the investigation of the incident. Cheatle said, in part: “Secret Service personnel on the ground moved quickly during the incident, with our counter sniper team neutralizing the shooter and our agents implementing protective measures to ensure the safety of former president Donald Trump.”

“The Secret Service is working with all involved Federal, state and local agencies to understand what happened, how it happened, and how we can prevent an incident like this from ever taking place again. We understand the importance of the independent review announced by President Biden yesterday and will participate fully. We will also work with the appropriate Congressional committees on any oversight action,” Cheatle also said. 

Editor’s note:  FactCheck.org  is one of several organizations  working with Facebook  to debunk misinformation shared on social media. Our previous stories can be found  here . Facebook has  no control  over our editorial content.

Associated Press. “AP PHOTOS: Shooting at Trump rally in Pennsylvania.” Updated 14 Jul 2024.

Associated Press. “Video captures shooting at Trump rally.” 13 Jul 2024.

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. “Pennsylvania State Police Identify Victims Shot During Attempted Assassination of Former President Trump.” 14 Jul 2024.

Kanno-Young, Zolan, et al. “Secret Service Under Scrutiny After Assassination Attempt on Trump.” New York Times. 14 Jul 2024.

Tolan, Casey. “What we know about the Trump rally gunman so far.” CNN 14 Jul 2024.

Tsirkin, Julie, et al. “Congress demands answers from Secret Service after Trump assassination attempt.” NBC News. 14 Jul 2024.

United States Secret Service. About Us. “Protecting Leaders.” Accessed 15 Jul 2024.

United States Secret Service. “Statement From U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle.” 15 Jul 2024.

Wild, Whitney, Evan Perez and Tierney Sneed. “Secret Service faces serious questions about security footprint and rooftop access at Trump Event.” CNN. 15 Jul 2024.

What went wrong? How did Secret Service allow shooter to get so close to Trump?

Investigations into the sniper shooting that injured Donald Trump and killed a local firefighter must focus on whether several key Secret Service protocols were violated, current and former law enforcement officials said Sunday.

Chief among them: Why wasn't a building well within 1,000 yards of the former president locked down enough to prevent the shooter from nearly assassinating the presumptive GOP presidential nominee?

In an exclusive interview, former Secret Service Director Julia Pierson told USA TODAY that maintaining such a sniper security perimeter is part of the agency's responsibility for safeguarding "protectees" like Trump from harm. Yet the man identified as the sniper, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks , fired off numerous rounds from a building top about 150 yards from Trump's lectern at Saturday's rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

“I think 1,000 yards is the sniper capability that we have a concern about for the President. So anything that's within that range, that is a professional, makable shot... and you want to know about it,” Pierson said.

“When you think about it, it's a football field and a half … and that is a makeable shot by an individual.  And obviously an inch would have made a difference in this case and Trump wouldn't be with us,” said Pierson, who spent three decades with the Secret Service, much of that on presidential protective operations, before becoming director in 2013.

Crooks managed to fire off numerous rounds , injuring two other people in the crowd, before being killed by a Secret Service counter-sniper sharpshooter from another nearby roof. On Sunday evening, the FBI clarified that Crooks had used an "AR-style 556 rifle ."  

Rep. Ruben Gallego, a former Marine and Arizona Democrat, said that those "responsible for the planning, approving and executing of this clearly insufficient security plan need to testify before Congress and be held accountable."

"There should never have been a clear line of sight on the former president. My Marine Corps training taught me that,” said Gallego, an Iraq veteran who is running for Senate in Arizona.

President Joe Biden also weighed in, directing Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to review all security measures for the Republican National Convention, which begins Monday in Milwaukee. He said he had ordered an independent review of the security measures taken at the Trump rally to "assess exactly what happened."

First assassination attempt against a former or current President in 43 years

The shooting marks the first assassination attempt against a former or current U.S. president since President Ronald Reagan was injured in a March 1981 shooting at a Washington, D.C. hotel. Before that, in 1975 a member of the Manson Family cult tried to shoot President Gerald Ford at close range in Sacramento, California but failed to chamber a round into the gun.

The Secret Service has confirmed that it is investigating how a gunman armed with an AR-style rifle was able to get close enough to shoot and injure Trump in what appears to be an epic failure of one the agency's primary duties of protecting VIPs. The FBI, state police and the U.S. Congress also will be seeking to answer the many swirling questions.

Some of those questions: How did Donald Trump’s would-be assassin gain a high-ground vantage point to fire off a potentially fatal head shot against the former president? Why didn’t Secret Service counter-sniper teams neutralize Crooks before he got off so many rounds from his high-powered rifle, killing one Trump rally-goer and injuring two others?

Also, if Crooks had been flagged by local authorities for acting suspiciously as some media have reported, why was he then able to climb atop a nearby building with a rifle, firing a shot that grazed Trump's ear? And why did Secret Service agents allow Trump to stand back up defiantly and do three fist-pumps when it wasn't clear that the threat had been fully neutralized?

Could this have been stopped before it started?

John Miller, a former senior FBI and New York Police Department official, said on CNN that Crooks had been observed acting suspiciously near the magnetometers, or metal detectors stationed outside the event by local law enforcement agencies.

Those officials then shared those concerns with the Secret Service and other authorities “and people had his description and were looking around for him,” said Miller, who’s currently a CNN analyst.

At some point, Miller said, Crooks “left the magnetometer area. And then at some point, people start to point out there's a guy who's climbing on that roof, and he has a rifle and police are putting that over the radio.”

According to some video and media reports, the Secret Service counter-sniper on a nearby rooftop was aiming at the shooter, perhaps before he took some or all of his shots.

“The counter sniper appears to be looking through his scope as if he's scanning for something. … And then, when the shots are fired, takes out the shooter from his position almost immediately,” said Miller, the NYPD’s deputy commissioner of Intelligence & Counterterrorism until 2022. “So we have to fill in those gaps. What happened during those seconds? What were the communications? What did he see through the scope, and did he act at his first opportunity? And we'll learn that later.”

Miller said the counter-sniper succeeded in eliminating the threat quickly. “That part worked,” he said. But, he added, “What about the front end? Could this have been stopped with faster or more clear communications or a more intense search?”

Investigations have already begun

It’s possible and even likely that the Secret Service security plan for the rally, in conjunction with local and state authorities, took into consideration the building from which Crooks allegedly sprayed bullets. It could have been locked down from the inside, prompting Crooks to have to climb to the roof from the outside as part of the security plan put in place by authorities before the rally.

But the entire sequence of events will be investigated to find out what went so wrong that Crooks was able to gain access to the roof of the building, including whether he might have surveilled the site ahead of time to find the best way up, according to current and former law enforcement officials.

William Pickle, a former special agent in charge of the Secret Service's Vice Presidential Protective Division who oversaw Vice President Al Gore’s detail, said there are provisions in any Secret Service security survey that nearby buildings are accounted for. The Secret Service regularly secures public areas such as parade routes peppered with large buildings, and advance teams interview building owners and business managers to determine who has access to the building and at what times to determine if agents need to stand watch.

“We know who’s there, why they’re there, we have control over those buildings,” Pickle said. “It seems like somewhere in this security survey, someone dropped the ball on those particular buildings.”

Though Pickle said the counter-sniper that took out the shooter did an “outstanding” job, he questioned if the Secret Service had posted additional counter-sniper teams to sufficiently cover the entire event perimeter. “A gunshot knows no boundaries except by the velocity and distance a bullet can travel,” Pickle said. “This was a relatively easy shot, and Donald Trump may have been the luckiest man in the world yesterday. He survived by about half an inch."

Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi told USA TODAY on Sunday that he was traveling to Milwaukee, the site of the upcoming Republican National Convention, and would not be in a position to talk until later in the day. At 2 p.m., he said he was still "unable to respond" to claims that the Secret Service made mistakes in allowing the shooter to gain such a close vantage point.

Three hours later, another senior Secret Service official also declined to comment on whether the agency failed in its mission to protect Trump at the Saturday rally.

“Any questions regarding yesterday’s event can be directed to our public affairs office out of DC,” said Audrey Gibson-Cicchino, the agency’s coordinator for the upcoming Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. Speaking at a news conference there, she said she could only discuss convention security measures.

In a news conference early Sunday morning, the FBI special agent in charge of the Pittsburgh field office, Kevin Rojek, had confirmed that the FBI is leading the investigation into the shooting and that it “is our assessment at this time” that law enforcement did not know the shooter was on the roof until he began firing.

“It is surprising,” Rojek said when asked about the gunman’s close vicinity to the rally. He said that proximity is among the details that will be a focus of the investigation. Rojek added: “The Secret Service really needs to answer that question. They conduct the initial site survey.”

At the midnight news conference, State Police Lt. Col. George Bivens had deferred questions about whether there was anything about the venue that made it particularly difficult to secure by the Secret Service, which did not have representatives at the televised briefing.

Bivens also said he would not speculate on “how close a call” it was for Trump.

But Bivens confirmed that law enforcement is following up on a “number of suspicious occurrences” including accounts from witnesses who said they tried to flag police about the activity of a person outside the rally moments before the shooting.

Calls for answers from both sides of the aisle

Sen. James Comer, a Kentucky Republican who chairs the House Oversight committee, was one of several lawmakers who called for an immediate investigation into potential lapses by the Secret Service.

Comer said in a statement that he has already contacted the Service Service for a briefing and he called on Cheatle – the director – to testify about what went wrong. His committee will send a formal invitation soon, Comer said.

"Political violence in all forms is unamerican and unacceptable," Comer said in his statement. "There are many questions and Americans demand answers."

Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman, a Democrat, also called morning for an urgent investigation to explain what happened. Several hours later, however, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, also a Democrat, sidestepped a question at his own news conference about potential Secret Service failures in preventing the shooter from climbing atop the building.

"I'm not getting into ... any questions regarding the ongoing investigation," Shapiro said. "I trust that the FBI and the Pennsylvania State Police will keep you posted throughout the day and in the days ahead as to their investigations."

Contributing: Melissa Brown, a state political reporter at The Tennessean in Nashville, Tennessee.

Advertisement

What We Know About the Assassination Attempt Against Trump

The former president was holding a rally when he said he was shot in his ear. Two people, including the suspected gunman, were killed and two were critically injured.

• Share full article

By Michael Levenson

• July 20, 2024

A man fired “multiple shots” toward the stage during former President Donald J. Trump’s rally in Butler, Pa., on the evening of July 13, killing one spectator and critically injuring two others, according to the Secret Service.

Mr. Trump was rushed off the stage, blood visible around his right ear, and was pronounced fine. The Secret Service said its agents had killed the shooter, whom federal law enforcement officials identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old from Bethel Park, Pa.

The attorney general’s office and the F.B.I. are investigating the shooting as an assassination attempt and possible domestic terrorism attack.

Here’s what we know about the shooting.

The Former President

Mr. Trump ducked quickly after the shots began and as members of the crowd began to scream. Secret Service agents then rushed Mr. Trump off the stage. As he was escorted to his motorcade, Mr. Trump, whose face and right ear were bloodied, pumped his fist in a defiant gesture to the crowd.

How the Assassination Attempt on Trump Unfolded

Footage from the scene of the shooting at a rally in pennsylvania on saturday shows the suspected gunman had a clear line of sight toward the former president, despite being outside the rally’s secure perimeter..

Former President Trump was speaking at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania when shots rang out. Multiple people at the rally were filming at the time. The F.B.I. has said the shots were fired by a 20-year-old man from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, which is about an hour’s drive from the rally. Trump was on stage speaking for just over six minutes and talking about illegal immigration when the first sound of gunfire is heard. There are two bursts of fire. First three shots and then five shots Three seconds after the first shot is fired, he is surrounded by Secret Service agents who attempt to hurry him from the stage. They’re followed by other law enforcement personnel who are more heavily armed. For a brief moment, Trump tells them to stop until he can get his shoes. Let me get my shoes. Let me get my shoes. Sir, I got you, sir. Let me get my shoes on. When he gets up, blood is visible on his right ear. He pauses again before being rushed off stage and raises his fist in the air, appearing to mouth the word fight. The former president was standing on stage at this location. Soon after the first gunfire is heard, a video captured what appears to be the suspected shooter dead on the roof of this building. The building is the closest one to the rally that wasn’t within the security perimeter and is roughly 400 feet north of where Trump is standing. The location of the body matches the likely firing position. This is because the injury to the ear of Trump, who is facing northwest, is consistent with gunfire from that location. An audio analysis of the shots by an acoustic expert at Montana State University found the gunfire reached the stage from the same approximate distance as the body’s location. A Secret Service spokesman also said the suspected shooter fired from an elevated position and was killed. A video filmed during the rally showed a law enforcement sharpshooter positioned here on a roof roughly 400 feet from that suspected gunman and aiming in the gunman’s general direction before Trump was shot. Footage recorded after the shooting shows one spectator bleeding from a head wound in the bleachers to the north of where Trump was standing. According to the Secret Service, one person at the rally was killed and two others were critically injured. The shooting is being investigated as an assassination attempt.

At the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, in his first public speech since the assassination attempt, Mr. Trump described his personal experience of the shooting .

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Congress demands answers from Secret Service after Trump assassination attempt

WASHINGTON — Top leaders in Congress quickly unified to rebuke a failed assassination attempt on Donald Trump at a Saturday rally, demanding briefings and planning investigations into the incident that left the former president injured.

“Congress will do a full investigation of the tragedy yesterday to determine where there were lapses in security and anything else that the American people need to know and deserve to know,” House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., said Sunday on the “ TODAY ” show . “But in the meantime, we’ve got to turn the rhetoric down. We’ve got to turn the temperature down in this country.”

Johnson said he has “gotten briefings from law enforcement” and asked “pointed questions” of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas on Saturday night.

Top Democrats on Capitol Hill also condemned the shooting.

“I am horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe. Political violence has no place in our country,” Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said in a statement. His office said after the incident he had been briefed on the latest developments.

House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer, R-Ky., asked Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to testify at a July 22 hearing. House Homeland Security Committee Chair Mark Green, R-Tenn., also demanded answers from Mayorkas in a Sunday letter.

Green held a call with Cheatle on Sunday afternoon, according to a Homeland Security Committee GOP spokesperson, and said the majority on the panel planned to hold a member briefing on Monday.

In a separate letter to Cheatle, Rep. Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., demanded answers on the security lapse at the Trump rally, including whether the Trump campaign requested additional protection and whether those resources were denied.

Gallego, a military veteran, wrote that the shooting “raises grave concerns regarding the security measures — or lack thereof — that were taken to protect a former President of the United States and a Major Presidential Candidate.”

“I call on all those responsible for the planning, approving, and executing of this failed security plan to be held accountable and to testify before Congress immediately,” Gallego wrote in the letter, obtained first by NBC News.

Reps. Mike Lawler, R-N.Y., and Ritchie Torres, D-N.Y., announced in the wake of the shooting that they would propose legislation “providing President Joe Biden, former President Donald Trump, and presidential candidate Robert Kennedy Jr. with enhanced Secret Service protection.”

In a notice sent by the Senate Notification Center late Saturday in the wake of the assassination attempt, Senate offices were told that Capitol Police is “not tracking any additional threats to Members.”

“Capitol Police are coordinating to provide additional support at events related to both the Republican and Democratic National Conventions,” the notice added.

House offices received a similar notice earlier that night, and members will receive a virtual security briefing on Monday afternoon, according to two people invited.

Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., called on the Democratic-controlled Senate Homeland Security Committee to hold an investigation on the shooting before Aug. 1 “to demand answers from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Secret Service on how this happened and what steps are being taken to investigate this assassination attempt and make sure it never happens again.”

Sens. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., and Jacky Rosen, D-Nev., two members of the committee, also called for an inquiry.

“We need more details & answers about the assassination attempt against former President Trump so there can be accountability & we can ensure this never happens again. As a member of the Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs Committee, I’m calling for a hearing to investigate,” Rosen said on X .

An aide to Senate Homeland Security Committee Chair Gary Peters, D-Mich., said Sunday afternoon that the panel would be conducting an investigation and had requested a member briefing from DHS. The aide also said Peters would speak with Mayorkas on Sunday.

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., herself a past target of political violence, said in a statement: “As one whose family has been the victim of political violence, I know firsthand that political violence of any kind has no place in our society. I thank God that former President Trump is safe.”

Julie Tsirkin is a correspondent covering Capitol Hill.

Sahil Kapur is a senior national political reporter for NBC News.

Ali Vitali is a Capitol Hill correspondent for NBC News, based in Washington.

Frank Thorp V is a producer and off-air reporter covering Congress for NBC News, managing coverage of the Senate.