Acting Cover Letter Template, Example, & Writing Tips

Be sure you use the proper cover letter format to make your cover letter readable and professional.

Before you begin writing, make sure you know how to write a cover letter in a way that makes you seem like the best candidate for the job.

I wrote this cover letter example for a client who was excited about playing the role of Emma in the production of After Hours. Here’s the rationale behind the choices I made and how each decision contributed to crafting an effective, compelling cover letter tailored to this opportunity.

1. Tailor your acting cover letter to the role

When writing this letter, I knew the key was to make it feel personal and deeply connected to the production. That’s why I opened by naming both the production (After Hours) and the role (Emma). Mentioning these details upfront shows the recipient that my client is invested in this specific project, not just sending out a generic application.

To go even further, I incorporated the recommendation from James Foster. By referencing someone the casting director knows and trusts, I aimed to establish credibility for my client right away. This approach creates a bridge between my client and the recipient, increasing the chances of their application standing out.

I also took the time to weave Emma’s character into the narrative. I compared Emma to roles my client has previously played, like Cherry Divine in Wingshine and Hanna Combs in Coronation Street. These comparisons demonstrate not only my client’s understanding of Emma’s character but also how their past work directly prepares them for this role. 

It was important to show that my client has both the experience and the insight to excel as Emma, making them a natural fit for the production.

2. Showcase your specialisations

When I highlighted my client’s past roles, I chose them strategically to align with Emma’s character arc. For example, I noted that Cherry Divine and Hanna Combs are both small-town characters with strong personal values, much like Emma. This wasn’t just a way to list past work — it was a deliberate decision to show that my client specialises in portraying characters with similar emotional depth and complexity.

My goal here was to help the casting director envision my client in the role of Emma. By making these connections explicit, I reinforced the idea that my client’s unique expertise perfectly matches what the production is looking for. 

This approach wasn’t about overwhelming the reader with every role my client has ever played; instead, I focused on a couple of carefully chosen examples that would resonate with the recipient and align with their vision for the character.

3. Write an effective introduction

When crafting the introduction, I knew it needed to grab the hiring manager’s attention immediately while also setting a professional tone. That’s why I started by stating the role and production by name, followed by the connection to James Foster. This structure not only provides clarity but also builds rapport, giving the cover letter introduction a personal touch.

The phrase “I think I would be an excellent fit for the role” was another intentional choice. I wanted to strike the right balance between confidence and humility. It’s a simple but effective way to show that my client believes in their abilities without coming across as presumptuous.

By leading with relevance, enthusiasm, and a mutual contact, I ensured the introduction would make a strong first impression and encourage the recipient to read on.

4. Emphasise your soft skills

It was important to me that this letter showcased my client’s soft skills, particularly empathy and emotional intelligence, as these are crucial for an actor portraying a character like Emma. To achieve this, I included a paragraph about my client’s personal connection to Emma’s dilemmas.

The line “Reading the script, I ached for the early dilemmas Emma faces” was designed to show that my client has a deep understanding of and empathy for the character. 

I wanted the casting director to see that my client doesn’t just approach roles from a technical standpoint but also connects emotionally to the story. This level of empathy is what makes performances truly resonate with an audience, and I knew it would be a key selling point for my client.

I also included a personal anecdote about my client’s mother being a nurse who balanced work and family responsibilities. This wasn’t just added for emotional appeal — it was a deliberate way to show that my client’s understanding of Emma’s struggles comes from lived experience. 

By highlighting this connection, I reinforced the idea that my client can bring authenticity and emotional depth to the role.

Additional observations

Beyond the specific focus areas, I also made sure the cover letter letter concluded with a strong call to action. I wrote: “At your convenience, I’d love to meet for an interview to discuss the role in further detail.” 

This phrasing is polite, enthusiastic, and leaves the door open for further discussion, ensuring the letter ends on a professional and proactive note.

Throughout the letter, I prioritised clarity and conciseness. I wanted every sentence to serve a purpose, whether it was establishing my client’s credibility, highlighting their specialisation, or building rapport with the recipient.

By maintaining a conversational tone, I aimed to make the letter approachable and engaging, which is especially important in the creative industries where personality can play such a significant role.