Down’s Syndrome Awareness Week: Q&A with Marvellous actor Daniel Murphy

24th March 2022

This week we are shining a spotlight on one of our Marvellous company members, Daniel Murphy as we celebrate Down’s Syndrome Awareness Week (21^st-27^th March 2022). Daniel has Down’s Syndrome and is one of the actors currently portraying Neil ‘Nello’ Baldwin. Marvellous is a life-affirming, uplifting account about how to realise your dreams – even when society tries to limit you with a label. In celebration of his performance, we asked Daniel what inclusion means to him.

How did you get into acting?

“I have been involved with different groups from the age of seven years old. Then I was with Stoke Inter Theatre for several years. They made a film (Back to Front Films) and I had a part in that and also did some behind the camera work.”

What challenges have you faced as a person with Down’s Syndrome? How did you overcome them?

“Maybe the most difficult thing was getting a paid job – companies let me work voluntary, but no paid job at the end. I went to Riverside Employment Training in Stoke and after a few weeks there, they helped me to find work. I had to do several weeks’ voluntary, but then I was offered four hours paid work a week. I have been there for five years now.”

How does it feel to be a part of the Marvellous Company?

“Being part of this fantastic company of people is Marvellous and I hope it leads to more jobs in the future.”

What does inclusion mean to you?

“To be given the same chances and opportunities as anyone else and being allowed to join in with things.”

You can see Daniel in Marvellous until Saturday 9^th April. Head here to buy your tickets.