Orla Casey: ‘I Always Wanted To Be An Actress’

You might recognise Orla Casey from a little known Netflix series called Bodkin.

The 26 year old actress appeared in the show last year, where she played a young nun living amidst the backdrop of mysterious disappearances and thrilling small town dramas.

She is also a passionate advocate for people with Down Syndrome, and sits on the panel on the National Advisory Council in Down Syndrome Ireland.

World Down Syndrome Day took place this month, and Orla was one of many adults using their platform and their work to raise awareness and support inclusion.

She tells STELLAR that it’s important for people with disabilities to have a place in TV, film and beyond – not just for themselves, but for everyone.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Down Syndrome Ireland (@downsyndromeireland)

“It’s about being accepted,” she says. “Even though some people might not understand Down Syndrome, just put yourselves in our shoes and think of how important is to be included.

“Even though it’s least bit interesting about me, I like to do different things not because of my Down Syndrome but as a person. We should be recognised for our abilities, and show what we can do.”

Since she was a child, Orla always wanted to be an actress. Her first role was in a short 2017 film, A Different Kind Of Day, which followed a teen couple who are harassed by a group of strangers.

A few years later she appeared in short film Aretha, before being cast in TV show Clean Sweep alongside Barry Ward and Charlene McKenna, an experience she adored.

“Everyone was super friendly and super nice,” she says. “My co star Barry Ward gave me helpful tips and advice. He was cool and calm and down-to-earth person I would love to work with him again if that is possible.”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Orla Casey (@ocasey989)

Just last year, Orla appeared in Netflix’s Bodkin, a series about a group of podcaster who descend on a sleepy Irish village to try and find out the truth about some murders.

Orla says that her career so far has allowed others to see what she is capable of. “I want to see the excitement and the joy that I can bring to people,” she says. “Even though I am different, with hard work and determination I can do anything I can achieve anything I put my mind to.”

Right now, Orla is enrolled in a drama course, and is always on the look out for new roles. As well as her work as an actress, she also has a role with Down Syndrome Ireland and the NAC. Each month, members meet to discuss topics of interest to the community, like housing and mental health.

“It gives a voice for people like us and we have a right to be heard,” Orla says. “We have the power to change people’s perspectives about us.”

You can find out more about Down Syndrome Ireland here.