For many millennials growing up in Australia and beyond, Dance Academy was more than just a TV show; it was a cultural touchstone. Airing for three seasons on ABC, the series captivated audiences with its portrayal of aspiring ballet dancers at the elite (and fictional) National Dance Academy in Sydney, set against the stunning backdrop of Walsh Bay piers.
The show, boasting a stellar cast, a movie adaptation, and a Logie Award for Most Outstanding Children’s Program, remains beloved even a decade after its finale in 2013. Its enduring popularity begs the question: what happened to the talented actors from Dance Academy who pirouetted their way into our hearts?
The cast of Dance Academy in a promotional shot. (IMAGE: ABC)
In a candid interview with Yahoo Lifestyle, Xenia Goodwin, who played the lead role, revealed the cast remains a close-knit family to this day. Let’s take a look at what the actors from Dance Academy are doing now, years after leaving the halls of the National Dance Academy.
Xenia Goodwin as Tara Webster
Xenia Goodwin, the actress who played Tara Webster, pictured in a recent photo. (IMAGE: ABC/Instagram)
Xenia Goodwin became synonymous with Tara Webster, the determined protagonist of Dance Academy. Despite her central role, Goodwin has largely stepped away from the acting spotlight since the show concluded. Following Dance Academy: The Movie in 2017, and a guest appearance in the TV miniseries Winter (2015) and the short film The Bard (2017), she hasn’t taken on many screen roles.
In a personal revelation, Goodwin shared a harrowing experience: a near-fatal car accident in Greece in July 2019. She openly discussed the accident in a December 2021 Instagram post, expressing gratitude for her recovery after doctors initially feared quadriplegia.
In her own words on Instagram, reflecting on the accident, Xenia wrote in December 2021, ”As far as injuries go, this has been pretty bad. I am supposed to be a quadriplegic, and I thank my lucky angels every day that I am now.”
While she expresses missing ballet and acting, Goodwin seems to be exploring new paths. As of 2023, she mentioned in her Yahoo Lifestyle interview that she’s working in property development, specifically “doing masterplan communities and stuff,” suggesting a shift towards a different career trajectory.
Jordan Rodriguez as Christian Reed
Jordan Rodriguez, known for his role as Christian Reed in Dance Academy, in a recent role. (IMAGE: ABC/Instagram)
Jordan Rodriguez’s character, Christian Reed, was a complex and compelling figure in Dance Academy. His journey from a troubled start to a fan-favorite, particularly his romance with Tara, resonated deeply with viewers. Since the show, Rodriguez has successfully transitioned to Hollywood.
His American career includes a significant role as Mat Tan in The Fosters (2014-2018), a part in the critically acclaimed film Lady Bird (2017) alongside Saoirse Ronan, and most recently, a starring role as Ethan Chao in the Disney+ original series National Treasure: Edge of History (2022-2023). Rodriguez has built a solid career in the US, showcasing his versatility and talent on a global stage.
Alicia Banit as Kat Karamakov
Alicia Banit, who played Kat Karamakov, pictured as a mother. (IMAGE: ABC/Instagram)
Alicia Banit was already a familiar face to Australian audiences before Dance Academy, thanks to her role in Chris Lilley’s comedy Summer Heights High (2007). As Kat Karamakov, the quintessential ‘it girl’ of Dance Academy, Banit solidified her place in Aussie television.
Post-Dance Academy, Banit continued to work steadily in Australian productions. Her credits include Upper Middle Bogan (2016), Playing for Keeps (2018), Miss Fisher’s Modern Murder Mysteries (2019), and the ABC series Crazy Fun Park (2023). Beyond acting, Banit has embraced motherhood. She is married to Zac Burns and welcomed their daughter Isla in October 2022, adding a new and joyful chapter to her life.
Tim Pocock as Ethan Karamakov
Tim Pocock, the actor behind Ethan Karamakov, looking dapper in a recent photo. (IMAGE: ABC/Instagram)
Tim Pocock, who played the brooding ballet dancer Ethan Karamakov, was a heartthrob for many Dance Academy viewers. His portrayal of the talented but misunderstood older brother of Kat resonated with audiences.
After Dance Academy, Pocock pursued roles in independent films and explored his musical talents. He produces original music and shares it on social media, often alongside nostalgic photos from his Dance Academy days, keeping fans connected to his journey.
Dena Kaplan as Abigail Armstrong
Dena Kaplan, known as Abigail Armstrong in Dance Academy, now working as a DJ. (IMAGE: ABC/Instagram)
Dena Kaplan’s portrayal of the fiercely competitive Abigail Armstrong was a highlight of Dance Academy. While she reprised her role in Dance Academy: The Movie and made a few appearances in Australian dramas, Kaplan has largely transitioned away from acting.
Kaplan has found success and passion in the music industry as a DJ, performing internationally. She also founded Twerk after Werk, a dance workout program promoting empowerment through hip hop dance, with locations in several Australian cities. Adding to her exciting life changes, Kaplan and her partner Alex welcomed their first child in mid-2023.
Thom Green as Sammy Lieberman
Thom Green, who played Sammy Lieberman, in a recent photo. (IMAGE: ABC/Instagram)
Thom Green’s character, Sammy Lieberman, remains one of the most emotionally impactful characters in Dance Academy. Sammy’s tragic death in a car accident at the end of season two deeply affected viewers and is still remembered as a significant moment in the show.
Following his departure from Dance Academy, Green continued his acting career in Australian dramas, including Mr Inbetween (2021) and the film Of an Age. Sammy’s legacy as a beloved character endures, and Green’s subsequent work has further showcased his acting abilities.
Isabel Durant as Grace Whitney
Isabel Durant, who played Grace Whitney, sporting red hair in a recent photo. (IMAGE: ABC/Instagram)
Isabel Durant joined Dance Academy later in its run as Grace Whitney. After her time at the academy, Durant moved on to another popular Australian children’s show, Mako Mermaids (2015-2016).
Durant then transitioned to American television, securing a role in the long-running soap opera Days of Our Lives as Claire Brady, a role she began in 2020 and continues to play. Her move to US television marks a significant step in her career, demonstrating her adaptability and appeal to international audiences.
Thomas Lacey as Ben Tickle
Thomas Lacey, known for playing Ben Tickle, now running a dance studio. (IMAGE: ABC/Instagram)
Thomas Lacey, who played Ben Tickle, has largely shifted his focus to stage performance and dance education since Dance Academy. Apart from reprising his role for Dance Academy: The Movie, Lacey’s career has centered on live performance.
He notably played the lead role of Scott Hastings in Strictly Ballroom the Musical in 2013 and toured in productions like Grease the Arena Experience in 2018. Currently, Lacey co-owns the May Downs School of Dance with his wife, Chloe Hayden, sharing his passion and expertise with aspiring dancers.
Keiynan Lonsdale as Ollie Lloyd
Keiynan Lonsdale, who played Ollie Lloyd, in a recent photo. (IMAGE: ABC/Instagram)
Despite appearing in fewer episodes than some of his co-stars, Keiynan Lonsdale’s portrayal of the troubled Ollie Lloyd made a lasting impression. Lonsdale has arguably achieved the highest profile acting career post-Dance Academy.
He starred as Uriah in Insurgent (2015) and Allegiant (2016), gained critical acclaim for his role in Love, Simon (2018), and is widely recognized for playing Wally West/Kid Flash in The Flash (2015-2023). Beyond acting, Lonsdale is also a musician, releasing his studio album Rainbow Boy in 2020. In 2022, he publicly identified as gay in an interview with BuzzFeed, further connecting with his audience on a personal level.
The actors from Dance Academy have grown up before our eyes, both on and off screen. While they may have left the National Dance Academy behind, their contributions to the show and their subsequent paths continue to fascinate and inspire fans worldwide. Dance Academy remains a cherished series, not just for its engaging storylines and dance sequences, but also for the talented actors who brought these memorable characters to life.
