By: Jamie Steinberg
Q) How was your character Sabrina originally described to you?
A) Sabrina was pitched to me as the fun aunt, Dora’s (Samantha Lorraine) absolute favorite auntie, and of course, Diego’s (Jacob Rodriguez) mom. They also highlighted her love for roses, which was a lovely detail that I actually share!
Q) Was there anything you may have added to this role that wasn’t in the initial breakdown for the character?
A) Absolutely! I initially auditioned for Dora’s mom and had two callbacks. Director Alberto Belli then graciously asked if I’d be open to playing Auntie Sabrina and I immediately said yes. I saw it as a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the project in a different, but equally exciting way.
Q) As Diego’s mom and Dora’s aunt, talk about working with costars Samantha Lorraine and Jacob Rodriguez.
A) Working with Samantha Lorraine and Jacob Rodriguez as Diego’s mom and Dora’s aunt was an absolute joy.
Q) Alberto Belli directed the movie. What kind of advice did he offer during shooting that you took to heart and may have even incorporated?
A) Director Alberto Belli’s advice that truly resonated with me, and which I actively incorporated, was the importance of never forgetting our roots and respecting nature – including our natural instincts and vulnerability. Witnessing Dora’s beautiful arc through her journey on set really underscored the profound meaning of family for me.
Q) What were some of your favorite scenes to film for the movie?
A) It’s hard to pick just one because you truly must watch the movie on Paramount+ to experience them all! But if I had to choose, my absolute favorite scenes to film were those where we see Dora grappling with trying to fit in as a “regular” kid, temporarily putting aside her incredible superpowers and her strong inner voice. Those moments were truly special to capture.
Q) Certainly, this is a kid friendly film. What do you think it is about Dora and the Search for Sol Dorado that’s going to make it a fast fan favorite amongst the Dora fandom?
A) Oh, I think Dora and the Search for Sol Dorado is absolutely going to be a huge hit and a fast fan favorite! For one, it’s our second live-action film and it’s coming out just as we’re celebrating Dora’s incredible 25th anniversary. But beyond that, what truly sets it apart is how wonderfully it continues to champion bilingual kids, multicultural families and the sheer delight of exploring the world around us. It’s a joyful and relatable adventure for everyone
Q) You are known for your voice work as well. Do you have a preference for on-screen or voice work or is it more about the projects that come your way?
A) That’s a great question! I truly don’t have a preference between on-screen and voice work; for me, it’s all about the project itself and the unique ways I can help bring a story to life. Both mediums offer distinct challenges and joys. Having been in the voiceover industry for over twenty years – almost as long as my on-camera career – I’ve learned to appreciate the versatility each provides. Especially in a competitive landscape like LA, being able to jump from the booth to the set offers a rewarding balance.
Q) What are the other upcoming projects that you have been busy working on?
A) I’ve been quite busy with some exciting projects! For all the video game fans, I’m incredibly excited to be playing Shelly in Brawl Stars – such a fun game!
Beyond that, mark your calendars for the Brisk Theater Festival in Santa Monica, where I’ll be performing in the play Daughter Knows Best. We’re on for the last weekend of August at 6 PM.
And finally, you can catch me in September and October at The Big Bear Theater Company with the play “Enfrascada” written by Tanya Saracho. Lots of great things coming up!
Q) What would you like to say to everyone who are fans and supporters of the work you do?
A) Thank you, thank you, thank you to every single one of you who supports my work! The encouragement from my family, friends, students, and followers is genuinely priceless. What we’re building is a remarkable, growing community and I truly believe this amazing support will help me reach the next level in my career.