About Us

Drama Stars Academy (DSA) has over 25 years of success and is one of Canberra’s top Speech and Drama schools. With 200+ students and growing, DSA keeps adding new classes to meet demand. Founded in Melbourne in 2000, it relocated to Canberra in 2008.

At DSA, our teachers help students unlock their potential in a nurturing, positive environment. We offer programs for all ages, focusing on building confidence, creativity, and life skills.

Join us for a no-obligation FREE trial class at our unique STUDIO-THEATRE in Mitchell. No admin fees, term-by-term enrolment, and a welcoming, inclusive space where everyone SHINES!

About Donna

Donna Larkin is a passionate and award winning Primary School Teacher, with over 30 years of experience teaching Drama, both in the classroom and at Drama Stars Academy. Donna founded Drama Stars Academy in 2000, in Melbourne and brought the school with her when she moved to Canberra in 2008.

Donna has had an unwavering passion for the arts since she was born. She is a trained public speaker, drama teacher, primary teacher, dancer and calisthenics teacher. Donna has the tools, experience and knowledge to unlock each Star’s potential in a nurturing, safe environment.

In 2012, Donna was the winner of the ‘A Day Made Better’ competition, for being the most passionate and inspirational teacher in the ACT.

Donna believes in holistically changing the lives of her students and giving her Star’s the skills to achieve success in life.

Donna Larkin

Donna Larkin is a passionate and award winning Primary School Teacher, with over 30 years of experience teaching Drama, both in the classroom and at Drama Stars Academy. Donna founded Drama Stars Academy in 2000, in Melbourne and brought the school with her when she moved to Canberra in 2008. Donna has had an unwavering passion for the arts since she was born. She is a trained public speaker, drama teacher, primary teacher, dancer and calisthenics teacher. Donna has the tools, experience and knowledge to unlock each Star's potential in a nurturing, safe environment. In 2012, Donna was the winner of the 'A Day Made Better' competition, for being the most passionate and inspirational teacher in the ACT. Donna believes in holistically changing the lives of her students and giving her Star's the skills to achieve success in life.
Donna Larkin
Donna Larkin, an award-winning teacher with 30+ years of experience, founded Drama Stars Academy in 2000. She is passionate about nurturing students through the arts and was honored with the 'A Day Made Better' award in 2012.
Katy Larkin
Katy, a top 12 ACT Rostrum speaker, has over 30 performances and commercial work, including 'Weet-Bix Go.' She’s taught at Drama Stars Academy for 4 years and is studying Primary Education.
Kieren Larkin
Kieren has 15+ years of acting experience, with roles in Evita and Les Misérables. He teaches at Drama Stars Academy and won the 'Excellence in the Arts' award.

Our Team

Donna Larkin

Donna Larkin is a passionate and award winning Primary School Teacher, with over 30 years of experience teaching Drama, both in the classroom and at Drama Stars Academy. Donna founded Drama Stars Academy in 2000, in Melbourne and brought the school with her when she moved to Canberra in 2008. Donna has had an unwavering passion for the arts since she was born. She is a trained public speaker, drama teacher, primary teacher, dancer and calisthenics teacher. Donna has the tools, experience and knowledge to unlock each Star's potential in a nurturing, safe environment. In 2012, Donna was the winner of the 'A Day Made Better' competition, for being the most passionate and inspirational teacher in the ACT. Donna believes in holistically changing the lives of her students and giving her Star's the skills to achieve success in life.

Katy Larkin

Katy has been a part of Drama Stars Academy since the age of 2. Katy dedicates her time to sharing her passion for the arts with her DSA students and believes every child is capable of success. She is an award-winning Rostrum public speaker reaching the Semi-finals twice and ranking in the top 12 ACT Rostrum Public Speakers. She is an experienced actor, singer and dancer, trained in all three styles and has performed in over 30 musicals and productions. Katy has also been in commercials - most recent being the 'Weet-Bix Go' TVC. At DSA, Katy has been a valued and loved drama teacher for over 4 years. Katy has completed a double major in drama and is currently studying the Bachelor of Primary Education (Creative Arts) at University of Canberra.

Kieren Larkin

Kieren has been acting since the age of 3, studying drama and film acting for over 15 years. At the age of 15, Kieren appeared in his first tv commercial and later appeared in print media. At college, Kieren completed a double major in drama. Kieren's face may be familiar to you as his face is currently on the back of a bus in Canberra. Kieren currently teaches the ASD Boys classes, Senior Impro and Performance Classes. He is a kind and fantastic role model. Kieren has performed in many productions including 'Goldilocks', 'Evita', 'Le Miserable' and 'The Sound of Music'. He has also performed as a lead in Wakakirri and 4 Limelight productions. In 2011, Kieren won the prestigious 'Excellence in the Arts award. Kieren believes in the importance of Drama and the many social, emotional and physical benefits children gain from attending Drama Stars Academy.
Testimonials
"I have never seen a better space to teach and learn drama. You have it all!"
Testimonials
"This is the BEST drama school ever! We have 3 kids and we would not go anywhere else."
Testimonials
“I like Drama Stars because we have so many choices. For those of us who just want their kids to be so happy for the week, Drama Stars is perfect. For others who want their kids to do big productions it is perfect for that too. Donna caters for everyone's needs. She is amazing”
Testimonials
Hi Donna, I just want to share with you, that before Drama classes at DSA, my Rachel was so shy she could not speak at morning talk. However, Just last week, only after 4 drama classes, she stood up at assembly and was so confident, she blew everyone away. We are delighted with all you do for our kids. Thank you."
Testimonials
"This is the BEST drama school ever! We have 3 kids and we would not go anywhere else."