Rachael Dowling

Rachael Dowling is an accomplished actress and director who first graced the screen as Lily in John Huston's acclaimed adaptation of James Joyce's The Dead in 1987. Her career has since flourished, featuring prominent roles in Tom Collins' Bogwoman alongside Peter Mullan and David Yates' The Tichborne Claimant. Dowling's diverse portfolio includes appearances in P.J. Dillon's Rewind, the gripping Tears In The Rain with Sharon Stone, and the RTE drama The Treaty, where she starred opposite Brendan Gleeson as Michael Collins. She also captivated audiences as Sharon in Glenroe, a beloved rural drama series in Ireland.

In addition to her screen work, Rachael has a rich theatre background. She recently showcased her talents in Edna O'Brien's adaptation of The Country Girls, which garnered critical acclaim during its run at Dublin's Gaiety Theatre in 2012. Her theatrical journey began in Jim Sheridan's New York production of Brendan Behan's The Hostage in 1985, leading to collaborations in both theatre and film with Sheridan, including The Field and In The Name Of The Father.

Beyond acting, Rachael took a hiatus in the mid-90s to study Film and Television Production at Hunter College, later earning a first-class MA in Film Studies from Dublin City University. She has lectured at The National College of Art and Design in Film History and directed the award-winning short film Stealth, showcased at various international festivals. Rachael continues to contribute to the arts as a script editor and creative consultant, collaborating with Irish screenwriters and directors.