Omaha Actor Stars in Short Film Premiering at Local Festival

Joey Drwal, an actor with Down syndrome, takes the lead role in 'Chapter 21,' a short film debuting at the Omaha Film Festival.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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The upcoming Omaha Film Festival will premiere 'Chapter 21,' a short film starring Joey Drwal, an Omaha actor with Down syndrome. Directed by Katie Stoneburner, the film centers on a sibling relationship and features an all-local cast and crew, highlighting the growing accessibility of filmmaking and the evolution of disability representation in the entertainment industry.

Why it matters

For decades, characters with disabilities were often relegated to supporting roles or portrayed through stereotypical tropes. 'Chapter 21' subverts this trend by positioning Drwal as the protagonist, offering a nuanced and central role for an actor with a disability. This approach aligns with a growing demand for stories that reflect the full spectrum of human experience.

The details

Stoneburner's personal connection to the story, inspired by her brother Will who also has Down syndrome, fuels a powerful message of advocacy. The film's premiere at the Omaha Film Festival provides a vital platform for emerging filmmakers dedicated to disability awareness, and Drwal's participation in UNO's Trailblazer program underscores the importance of creating pathways for individuals with intellectual disabilities to pursue their passions.

  • The Omaha Film Festival will premiere 'Chapter 21' on March 13, 2026.
  • In 2025, Katie Stoneburner's documentary 'Becoming Sam Phillips' received an honorable mention at the Omaha Film Festival.

The players

Joey Drwal

An Omaha actor with Down syndrome who stars in the short film 'Chapter 21'.

Katie Stoneburner

The director of 'Chapter 21' and a filmmaker dedicated to disability awareness, inspired by her brother Will who also has Down syndrome.

UNO Trailblazer Program

A program at the University of Nebraska Omaha that provides opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities to study alongside their peers.

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What they’re saying

“Sharing my story is important to me because everyone deserves to feel included.”

— Joey Drwal

“One of the best days of their lives.”

— A member of the 'Chapter 21' crew

What’s next

The film's premiere at ACX Aksarben Cinema on March 13th is a potential springboard for wider distribution and recognition, as the Omaha Film Festival has a history of supporting diverse storytelling.

The takeaway

The success of 'Chapter 21' and Joey Drwal's leading role highlights the growing demand for authentic and inclusive representation of people with disabilities in the entertainment industry, empowering individuals to share their stories and fostering greater accessibility in the filmmaking process.