FLASH SPECIAL: THE SOUND OF MUSIC Character Cards Series - Audra McDonald

Today we are continuing our Flash Special series by focusing a spotlight on another star of the new NBC live TV presentation of Rodgers & Hammerstein's classic musical THE SOUND OF MUSIC, Audra McDonald.

Climb Ev'ry Mountain

Having already conquered both the Broadway musical and play with her unforgettable, Tony Award-winning work in numerous notable theatrical entities, acclaimed stage and screen star Audra McDonald is exactly the stalwart, standout type of talent that the new live TV presentation of THE SOUND OF MUSIC is attracting - count Carrie Underwood, Stephen Moyer, Christian Borle and Laura Benanti in that club, too, no doubt. Yet, is there anyone else on earth quite like Audra McDonald? Certainly not! She is one of a kind, possessing one of the most expressive, identifiable and rich voices in contemporary music, and that golden instrument shall be served especially well this week byway of the gems afforded her character in this authentic live TV adaptation of the classic stage musical.

After all, it is not just arguably the touchstone musical moment of the entire score afforded to the Mother Abbess in THE SOUND OF MUSIC as it originally existed and will be presented in the live show - that is, the exquisitely, remarkably rapturous anthem "Climb Ev'ry Mountain" - but, also, the character joins Maria for the cherished, oft-covered earworm "My Favorite Things", as well. Just as Captain Von Trapp is allowed more musical moments to shine in the original iteration of the musical as it will be shown here, so is the Mother Abbess allowed a chance to share an iconic song with Maria in this, what is to be a totally faithful representation of the original show.

Technicalities aside, the sheer spine-tingling promise of a dynamic modern-day diva such as Ms. McDonald performing a handful of the most well-known and well-loved songs in the entire canon of musical theatre live on TV for our enjoyment presents a thrilling entertainment conceit that will undoubtedly be virtually - and sonically - impossible for any Broadway baby to miss.

Of note, this new version of THE SOUND OF MUSIC will be a faithful adaptation of the original stage musical by Rodgers & Hammerstein along with bookwriters Howard Lindsay and Russel Crouse, retelling the historically-based story for a whole new generation. Furthermore, it will be broadcast live, thereby instantly adding an enticing new level of immediacy and excitement to the proceedings. Get ready to reintroduce your family to the most joyful, most emotional and most musical family adventure of them all!

THE SOUND OF MUSIC airs Thursday, December 5th at 8/7c, only on NBC. For more information on NBC's live presentation of THE SOUND OF MUSIC, visit the official site here.

All The Love You Can Give

So, now, let's take a look at some of Audra McDonald's finest Rodgers & Hammerstein-related moments and preview her in this week's live presentation of THE SOUND OF MUSIC.

First up, Audra McDonald discusses the finer points of her character and her history with THE SOUND OF MUSIC.

Now, here is the very first teaser trailer for THE SOUND OF MUSIC on NBC.

Next, check out this extensive look behind the scenes at rehearsals for THE SOUND OF MUSIC.

Audra McDonald essays "Edelweiss" on her new solo album and often sings it in concert, as seen here.

Audra McDonald won a Tony Award for her work in Rodgers & Hammerstein's CAROUSEL.

Lastly, enjoy this new featurette focusing on the music in THE SOUND OF MUSIC.

So, what element of Audra McDonald's performance in the live TV presentation of THE SOUND OF MUSIC are you looking forward to most? Is it the chance to witness one of Broadway's top talents in action live from your living room? Is it the opportunity to hear her take on some of musical theatre's most famous songs? Is it the Carrie Underwood duet, perhaps? Whatever it is, THE SOUND OF MUSIC is unquestionably the must-see movie musical event of the year!

Oh, and that dream that is sung about in "Climb Ev'ry Mountain"? Found.