Dana Kotenko

Biography

Dana is a Ukrainian actor and filmmaker based in Ireland. Originally from Kyiv, she has spent over three years in Ireland developing her work in film through a degree in Film and Screen Media at University College Cork, alongside acting training with Darren Kelleher at ActorsVision and further study with Jon Witty. While her practice spans filmmaking, production, and movement, Dana considers acting the core of her artistic identity. Her background in dance and movement informs her sensitivity to physical detail and emotional nuance, shaping the way she approaches both performance and visual storytelling. Her creative interests include explorations of female and queer identity, LGBTQ representation, and the emotional and psychological dimensions of character. Working across documentaries, music videos, and narrative short films, including projects showcased at the Fastnet Film Festival, she remains committed to developing her voice as both an actor and a filmmaker. She is open to collaborative, exploratory projects with visual and performing artists, with a particular focus on performance work that values creativity and shared vision.