Olga Merediz

Olga Merediz, born on February 15, 1956, in Guantánamo, Cuba, is an acclaimed American actress and singer. Noted for her versatile talent, she originated the role of Claudia in the Broadway musical 'In the Heights', and reprised it in the film adaptation, leading to a Tony Award nomination for 'Best Featured Actress in a Musical'. Holding television credits like NBC's 2016 series 'Shades of Blue' and Netflix's 'Orange Is the New Black', she's appreciated in both drama and comedic roles. She embarked on her film journey with 'The Brother from Another Planet' in 1984 and has since demonstrated immense talent in films including 'The Milagro Beanfield War' (1988), 'Music of the Heart' (1999), and 'In the Heights' (2021). She also gave her singing voice for the character Alma Madrigal in 'Encanto' (2021). In the realm of television, she's worked in 'Diary of a Future President', 'New Amsterdam', 'Brooklyn Nine-Nine', and others. She's also been a regular in the UK television series 'Bounty Hunters' and the comedy 'Saint George'. Beyond the screen, Olga shined on Broadway in 'Man of La Mancha', 'Les Misérables', and 'Mamma Mia!', among others. She also has extensive voice-over credits, including PBS Nature documentaries and various commercials, served as a spokesperson for the MTA, New York City Transit Authority. Her list of accolades includes a 2007 Drama Desk Award and a 2003 HOLA Tespis Award, besides the noteworthy Tony Award nomination.