Dance Performance Resume Template

As a dancer, your resume isn't just a list of skills; it's a curated performance showcasing your talent, experience, and unique artistic identity. Landing auditions and securing roles in the competitive dance world requires a resume that not only highlights your qualifications but also captures the attention of artistic directors and casting agents. This dance performance resume template is designed to help you craft a compelling and professional document that effectively communicates your passion and potential.

This template provides a structured framework to present your experience, training, and special skills in a clear, concise, and visually appealing format. We understand the specific needs and expectations of the dance industry, incorporating sections for performance credits, education, workshops, and notable achievements. It also provides guidance on tailoring your resume to different genres and types of dance opportunities, ensuring you always present your best foot forward. Customization is key, so feel free to adapt the sections and content to best reflect your individual journey and aspirations.

Using this template as a starting point, you can create a resume that's both informative and aesthetically pleasing, ultimately helping you stand out from the crowd and secure your dream dance performance opportunities. Remember, your resume is your first impression – make it count! Let's get started on crafting a resume that truly represents your artistry and dedication to the world of dance.

Why a dance performance resume template matters

In the competitive world of dance, a polished and professional resume is your first audition. A generic resume simply won't cut it. A dance performance resume template provides a structured framework specifically designed to highlight your dance-related skills, experience, and training in a way that resonates with artistic directors, choreographers, and dance companies. It ensures that your resume isn't just a list of jobs, but a compelling narrative of your dance journey.

Using a template saves you valuable time and effort. Instead of starting from scratch and wrestling with formatting, you can focus on tailoring the content to each specific opportunity. Dance resumes often require specific sections, such as performance experience, training, workshops, and special skills like pointe work or partnering. A template ensures you don't overlook any crucial information that could make you stand out.

Moreover, a well-designed template promotes readability and clarity. Artistic directors often have a stack of resumes to review, and they need to quickly assess your qualifications. A clean, organized template makes it easy for them to find the information they need, such as your performance history, training background, and any special skills that align with the role. It showcases your professionalism and attention to detail, qualities highly valued in the dance industry.

Finally, a dance performance resume template often incorporates industry-specific keywords that Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) recognize. Many dance companies now use ATS to filter resumes, so using the right keywords can help you get past the initial screening and into the hands of a human reviewer. This includes terminology related to dance styles (ballet, contemporary, hip-hop), performance types (soloist, ensemble), and relevant skills (improvisation, choreography).

Key sections: Performance Experience

The Performance Experience section is the heart of your dance resume and often the first place a casting director or artistic director will look. It's crucial to present this information clearly, concisely, and in a way that highlights your strengths and versatility as a dancer. This section should showcase your professional history, demonstrating your experience in various dance styles, roles, and performance settings.

When crafting this section, focus on quantifiable achievements and specific details. Instead of simply listing the name of a production, elaborate on your role, the choreographer, and any notable aspects of the performance. For example, instead of "Danced in *The Nutcracker*," try "Corps de ballet member in *The Nutcracker*, choreographed by [Choreographer's Name], [Theater Name], highlighting strong ensemble work and precise technique." Use action verbs to describe your contributions and showcase your skills. Remember to tailor this section to each job application, highlighting experiences most relevant to the specific role or company.

Organize your performance experience in reverse chronological order, with your most recent performances listed first. This allows the reader to quickly grasp your current level of experience and skillset. Include the following information for each performance: the name of the production or performance, the role you played, the choreographer, the company or organization, the venue, and the dates of performance. Consider adding a brief, one-line description that highlights a specific skill or achievement demonstrated in that role. Don't be afraid to showcase a range of experiences, demonstrating your adaptability and diverse dance background.

Here are some additional tips for optimizing your Performance Experience section:

• Quantify your achievements whenever possible. Did you perform a particularly challenging solo? Did you understudy a principal role? Mention these achievements to demonstrate your capabilities.
• Use keywords relevant to the dance industry. Research common keywords used in job descriptions and incorporate them naturally into your descriptions.
• Proofread carefully. Ensure your resume is free of errors in grammar and spelling. A polished resume demonstrates professionalism and attention to detail.

Key sections: Education & Training

The Education & Training section of a dance performance resume showcases the formal and informal training that has shaped you into the dancer you are. It's not just about listing degrees; it's about highlighting the specific skills, techniques, and knowledge you've gained that make you a valuable asset to a company or project. This section demonstrates your commitment to honing your craft and your readiness to learn and adapt.

When crafting this section, prioritize information that's most relevant to the specific dance performance resume template and the roles you're targeting. For example, if a company specializes in contemporary dance, emphasize your training in modern techniques like Graham or Limón. Conversely, if you're applying for a ballet company, highlight your Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) or Vaganova training. Always include the name of the institution or instructor, the dates of attendance, and any degrees, certifications, or qualifications you earned. Including details like summer intensives or workshops with renowned artists can also set you apart.

Here are some examples of what you might include in your Education & Training section:

• Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Dance – University Name, City, State (Year of Graduation)
• Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) Advanced 2 Certificate
• Summer Intensive Program – Name of Dance Company, City, State (Year)
• Workshop with [Renowned Choreographer] – City, State (Year)
• Master Classes in [Specific Dance Technique]

Beyond formal education, consider including relevant workshops, masterclasses, or independent study you've undertaken. This demonstrates a proactive approach to your development as a dancer. Think about any specialized training you've received in areas like choreography, improvisation, dance history, or injury prevention. These additional skills can make you a more well-rounded and versatile performer.

Remember to present your Education & Training in a clear and organized manner, typically in reverse chronological order (most recent first). Use consistent formatting and pay attention to detail. Proofread carefully to ensure accuracy and eliminate any typos or errors. A well-crafted Education & Training section conveys your dedication to dance and provides potential employers with a comprehensive overview of your artistic background.

Key sections: Skills & Abilities

The Skills & Abilities section of your dance performance resume is crucial for showcasing your specific talents and expertise to potential employers. This section should go beyond simply listing dance styles; it needs to highlight your proficiency in those styles, as well as any other skills that contribute to your overall performance ability and professionalism. Think about what makes you stand out as a dancer and ensure those unique attributes are clearly presented.

When listing your skills, be as specific as possible. For example, instead of just stating "Ballet," specify your level (e.g., "Advanced Ballet - Royal Academy of Dance training"). Similarly, when listing styles like "Jazz," clarify if you specialize in a particular sub-genre (e.g., "Contemporary Jazz," "Commercial Jazz"). This level of detail helps recruiters quickly assess your suitability for specific roles and projects. Include any relevant certifications or training programs that support your skill claims.

Consider including skills beyond pure dance technique. Think about performance-related abilities such as improvisation, partnering, choreography, and stage presence. Don't neglect skills that demonstrate your professionalism and work ethic, such as rehearsal discipline, teamwork, communication skills, and the ability to take direction. If you have experience in other performance areas, like singing or acting, these should also be included if relevant to the types of roles you're seeking.

Here are some categories and examples to consider when building your Skills & Abilities section:

• Dance Styles: Ballet (specify training and level), Jazz (specify sub-genre), Modern, Contemporary, Hip-Hop, Tap, Lyrical, Ballroom, Folk, etc.
• Performance Skills: Improvisation, Choreography, Partnering, Stage Presence, Character Work, Acting, Singing, Musicality.
• Related Skills: Flexibility, Strength, Stamina, Body Awareness, Injury Prevention, Physical Conditioning.
• Professional Skills: Rehearsal Discipline, Teamwork, Communication Skills, Adaptability, Time Management, Following Direction.
• Software & Technical Skills: Video Editing, Music Editing, Social Media Management (if relevant to self-promotion and portfolio).

Remember to tailor your Skills & Abilities section to each specific job application. Analyze the job description carefully and highlight the skills and abilities that are most relevant to the role. Using keywords from the job description can also improve your resume's visibility to Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), increasing your chances of landing an interview.

Formatting and visual appeal

The visual presentation of your dance performance resume is just as important as the content. A well-formatted resume makes it easier for casting directors and recruiters to quickly identify your key skills and experience. Consider the overall aesthetic – is it clean, professional, and easy to read? Avoid overly elaborate designs that can be distracting or difficult for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to parse.

Choose a readable font and consistent font sizes. A font size between 10 and 12 points is generally recommended for the body text, while headings can be slightly larger. Use bolding, italics, and underlining sparingly to highlight key information without making the resume appear cluttered. White space is your friend! Adequate margins and spacing between sections will improve readability and prevent the document from looking overwhelming. Aim for a balance between showcasing your information and maintaining a visually appealing layout.

Pay attention to the order and arrangement of your sections. Generally, your most relevant and impressive qualifications should be placed at the top of the resume. Consider using bullet points to present your experience and skills in a concise and easily digestible format. Ensure that your contact information is clearly visible and accurate. Proofread carefully for any errors in grammar or spelling, as these can detract from your professionalism. Finally, save your resume as a PDF to preserve the formatting and ensure that it displays correctly on different devices and operating systems.

Tailoring to auditions and roles

Your dance resume is not a one-size-fits-all document. It’s crucial to tailor it to each specific audition or role you’re applying for. This involves carefully analyzing the job description or audition requirements and highlighting the skills and experience that directly align with what the choreographer or company is seeking. Think of your resume as a targeted marketing tool designed to showcase your most relevant qualifications for that particular opportunity.

Start by identifying the key words and phrases in the audition notice or role description. For example, if they are looking for a dancer with strong partnering skills and experience in contemporary ballet, make sure your resume clearly reflects those qualifications. This might involve re-ordering your skills section, adding specific repertoire to your performance experience, or highlighting relevant training or workshops. The goal is to make it immediately obvious to the reader that you possess the qualities they are looking for.

Avoid simply listing every single dance experience you've ever had. Instead, prioritize the most relevant and impressive ones. If a particular role requires expertise in a specific dance style (e.g., hip-hop), emphasize your training and performance experience in that style, even if it means downplaying other, less relevant experiences. Quantify your achievements whenever possible. For example, instead of saying "Performed in multiple student productions," say "Performed in 5 student productions, including lead roles in 'Swan Lake' and 'The Nutcracker.'"

Consider creating multiple versions of your resume, each tailored to a different type of dance role or company. This allows you to easily adapt your resume to each specific application without having to constantly rewrite it from scratch. Remember to proofread each version carefully before submitting it, ensuring that it is free of errors and accurately reflects your qualifications.

Finally, don't be afraid to slightly adjust your resume format or style to better suit the specific audition or role. A contemporary dance company might appreciate a more creative and visually appealing resume, while a classical ballet company might prefer a more traditional and straightforward format. Pay attention to the company's aesthetic and tailor your resume to reflect that. This shows that you've done your research and are genuinely interested in the opportunity.

Resume Example: dance performance resume template

Below is a simple and clean resume example tailored to dance performance resume template. Replace placeholder details with your own achievements.

Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

Creating a compelling dance performance resume requires careful attention to detail. One common pitfall is being too generic. Recruiters and artistic directors are looking for specific skills and experiences that align with their needs. Avoid vague language like "strong dancer" and instead quantify your abilities with specific styles, techniques, and roles you've performed. Tailor your resume to each audition or application by highlighting the most relevant qualifications.

Another frequent mistake is neglecting the presentation and formatting. A cluttered or poorly organized resume can be difficult to read and may create a negative impression. Ensure your resume is clean, easy to navigate, and uses a professional font. Use consistent formatting for dates, titles, and bullet points. Consider using white space effectively to create visual appeal and improve readability. Proofread meticulously for typos and grammatical errors, as these can detract from your credibility.

Failing to quantify accomplishments is another significant pitfall. Instead of simply listing responsibilities, showcase the impact you made in previous roles. Use action verbs and quantify your achievements whenever possible. For example, instead of saying "Performed in various shows," say "Performed as a lead dancer in over 50 performances of [Show Name], reaching audiences of over [Number] people." Highlighting quantifiable results demonstrates your value and sets you apart from other candidates.

Finally, many dancers underestimate the importance of keywords. Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are often used to filter resumes based on specific skills and qualifications. Research the common keywords used in dance performance job descriptions and incorporate them naturally into your resume. This includes dance styles (ballet, contemporary, hip-hop), techniques (improvisation, partnering, pointe work), and relevant software or programs (video editing, stage lighting). By optimizing your resume for ATS, you increase the chances of it being seen by human eyes.

FAQs

Creating a compelling dance performance resume can be challenging. These frequently asked questions are designed to guide you through the process, ensuring your resume effectively showcases your skills and experience to potential employers. Understanding what recruiters and artistic directors look for is key to landing that audition or role.

What sections should I include in my dance resume? A standard dance resume should include: Contact Information, a Professional Summary (optional but highly recommended), Key Skills, Performance Experience, Choreography Experience (if applicable), Education & Training, and any relevant Additional Information such as awards, workshops, or special skills (e.g., singing, acting, specific dance styles). Tailor the order and emphasis of these sections based on the specific job or audition requirements. For example, if you're applying for a role that heavily emphasizes contemporary dance, highlight your contemporary experience and training.

How much detail should I include for each performance? While it's tempting to list every performance, focus on those that are most relevant and impressive. For each performance, include the production name, the company or organization, your role, the choreographer (if applicable), and the year. Instead of just listing the performance, try to quantify your impact whenever possible. For example, "Performed as lead in 'Swan Lake,' receiving critical acclaim for technical precision and artistic interpretation" is more impactful than simply listing "Swan Lake - Lead Role." If space is limited, prioritize recent and significant roles.

What if I don't have extensive professional experience? Don't worry! Focus on your training, education, workshops, and any student or community performances. Highlight your skills and dedication to the craft. Consider including a section on "Related Experience" where you can list volunteer work, teaching experience, or any other activities that demonstrate your passion for dance. A strong cover letter can also help to contextualize your experience and highlight your potential.

Should I include a headshot on my resume? While opinions vary, it is generally acceptable and often expected to include a professional headshot on your dance resume. Ensure the headshot is high-quality, recent, and accurately represents your current appearance. Place the headshot strategically, ensuring it doesn't distract from the content of your resume. Keep the file size reasonable to avoid issues with electronic submissions.

Craft Your Winning Resume

Remember, this template is a starting point. Tailor each section to reflect your unique skills, experiences, and the specific requirements of the roles you're applying for. Use strong action verbs and quantify your achievements whenever possible to showcase your impact.

We hope this template has helped you create a compelling dance performance resume. Don't forget to revisit our site for more resources, tips, and updated templates to keep your application materials fresh and competitive!