FLASH SPECIAL: THE SOUND OF MUSIC Character Cards Series - Carrie Underwood

Today, we kick off the Flash Special spotlight series focusing on the live NBC TV production of the classic Rodgers & Hammerstein musical THE SOUND OF MUSIC with a celebration of the leading lady herself, Carrie Underwood.

How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria?

While winning reality singing competition series AMERICAN IDOL and amassing more #1 country chart-topping hits than any other female artist this century are both majorly momentous feats worthy of much acclaim, perhaps the most Herculean challenge of Carrie Underwood's career to date will be the one arriving in the most unassuming of guises - a nun's habit.

Of course, Underwood is currently preparing to essay the legendary leading role of Maria Rainer Von Trapp in the new NBC live TV presentation of THE SOUND OF MUSIC, an Austrian girl acting as a postulant at a Viennese nunnery who soon finds herself as governess to the large family of a decorated veteran, Captain Von Trapp (Stephen Moyer). While many may know Underwood for her versatile range displayed in her contemporary musical material, THE SOUND OF MUSIC presents whole new facets of her notable vocal instrument to be explored - to say nothing of her acting.

Famously originated on Broadway by theatre icon Mary Martin and later on film by Broadway/Hollywood superstar Julie Andrews, THE SOUND OF MUSIC has remained indelibly linked to the former leading ladies in many minds of fans ever since, yet this new TV presentation offers the possibility of a whole new take on the character we all know and love, singing some of the greatest songs ever sung - if anyone is fit for the challenge, it would appear to be a talent like Ms. Underwood.

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.

She Has Confidence

So, now, let's take a look at some of Carrie Underwood's prior musical theatre-tinged turns and also preview her eagerly awaited upcoming performance in THE SOUND OF MUSIC as we await the broadcast next week.

First up, Carrie Underwood discusses the finer points of her character and her overall preparation for starring in 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.

Sample Carrie Underwood's first performance of "The Sound Of Music" on the variety special MUSIC ROCKS.

Also, don't miss Carrie Underwood teaming up with Broadway babies Kristin Chenoweth and Christina Applegate for a holiday medley.

Lastly, enjoy this new featurette on the music that makes THE SOUND OF MUSIC soar, showcasing comments by Carrie.

So, what aspect of Carrie Underwood's performance in THE SOUND OF MUSIC are looking forward to most? Is it to see her display a new twist on the classic character? Perhaps you can't wait to hear her take on the iconic tunes? Or, maybe, most of all, you want to see if she can infuse the sensational story and score of the show with all the magic and power we know it possesses? Whatever the case may be, THE SOUND OF MUSIC on NBC is the must-see movie musical event of the year!

Hopefully, Carrie Underwood will be able to resolutely answer the timeless question posed in the unforgettable song: "How do you solve a problem like Maria?"