Dascha Polanco Takes on New Role in Dora the Explorer as La Reina, the Iguana Queen

From Orange Is the New Black to Dora, Dascha Polanco has had a versatile career.

Dascha Polanco lends her voice to the animated series Dora the Explorer, portraying La Reina, the Iguana Queen who rules over all reptiles in the rainforest. Although initially intimidating and formal, La Reina reveals a playful side as the series progresses. She loves to laugh, and whenever she hears music, she can’t resist joining in with singing and dancing. Polanco’s dynamic portrayal of La Reina brings a unique charm to the character, making her both authoritative and endearing. Check out my conversation with Polanco.

Polanco is best known for her role as Dayanara Diaz in the hit Netflix series Orange is the New Black.

Her portrayal of the conflicted and resilient inmate earned her critical acclaim and solidified her place as one of the most compelling actresses in the ensemble cast. The show ran from 2013 to 2019 and was a cultural phenomenon, tackling complex social issues with dark humor and raw emotion. In addition to her success on television, Polanco appeared in the film adaptation of In The Heights, directed by Jon M. Chu. The 2021 musical, based on Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Broadway hit, highlights the vibrant culture of Washington Heights. Polanco played Cuca, one of the salon workers, contributing her talents to the colorful and energetic film, which celebrated Latinx culture and the dreams of its characters.

In the second season of Dora the Explorer, viewers can expect Dora and her trusty monkey companion, Boots, to face new challenges and navigate tricky obstacles in fantastical settings. As the beloved Latina heroine, Dora continues to inspire young audiences with lessons about kindness, friendship, and determination, all told through catchy songs and exciting adventures. The series features a talented voice cast, including Diana Zermeño as Dora and Asher Colton Spence as Boots, with guest stars like Polanco adding depth and excitement to the show.

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Sean Tajipour is the Founder and Editor of Nerdtropolis and the host of the Moviegoers Society and Reel Insights Podcast. He is also a member of the Critics Choice Association. You can follow on Twitter and Instagram @Seantaj.

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