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Actor

Dena Kaplan

Dena Amy Kaplan is a South African‑born Australian actress, dancer, singer and DJ whose multi‑faceted career has seen her shine across stage, screen and the music world. Raised in Melbourne from the age of seven, she trained at the Australian Ballet School and Jane Moore Academy of Ballet, laying the groundwork for a performance career rooted in movement and discipline. 


Kaplan first appeared on television in 2005 on the spy series Scooter: Secret Agent, and went on to guest on shows such as City Homicide and Flight of the Conchords. Her breakout role came as Abigail Armstrong in the acclaimed teen drama Dance Academy which played in over 160 countries. She later reprised the role in Dance Academy: The Movie and appeared in films such as Long Story Short, Occupation and the mini‑series Apple Cider Vinegar.


Parallel to her screen work, Kaplan performs as DJ/producer “Dena Amy” and has become a force in the electronic‑music scene. Her credits include festival appearances at major events such as Coachella, EDC Las Vegas and Splendour in the Grass, and she has toured with the likes of RÜFÜS DU SOL and Hayden James. Dena’s theatre credits include Carousel & Disney’s The Lion King which she performed in all over the world. Dena is currently making waves with her new podcast Life Academy


With her ballet foundation, screen presence and chart‑making musical ambition, Kaplan exemplifies the “360‑degree” artist, effortlessly bridging acting, dance and music into a standout career still evolving.

Related Program

8 Feb 2026

Dance Academy: Reunion

1:00 pm

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