Watch The Sound of Music Live!

In 2013, NBC brought the classic Broadway musical, "The Sound of Music," to life in a live televised event starring Carrie Underwood, Stephen Moyer, and Laura Benanti. "The Sound of Music" tells the story of Maria, a young postulant who becomes a governess for the seven children of Captain Georg Von Trapp, a widowed naval officer who runs his household like a military ship. As Maria brings joy and music into the children's lives, she and the Captain fall in love, but their newfound happiness is threatened by the rise of the Nazi party in Austria.

Carrie Underwood, known for her powerhouse vocals and country music career, took on the iconic role of Maria, singing classics like "My Favorite Things," "Do-Re-Mi," and "The Sound of Music." Stephen Moyer, best known for his role in the HBO series "True Blood," portrayed Captain Von Trapp with a stern but loving demeanor. Meanwhile, Laura Benanti, a Broadway veteran, shone as Elsa Schraeder, the wealthy socialite who hopes to marry the Captain and clashes with Maria.

The live broadcast was not without its challenges, as technical issues and some questionable casting decisions brought criticism from viewers and critics. Some criticized Underwood's lack of acting experience and noted that her country twang didn't quite fit the character of Maria, while others felt that Moyer's British accent was distracting. However, many praised the live aspect of the production and the impressive staging and choreography.

One standout moment of the show was the performance of "Climb Ev'ry Mountain" by Tony-winner Audra McDonald, who played the Mother Abbess. Her powerful vocals and emotional delivery of the song left audiences in awe.

Despite its flaws, "The Sound of Music Live!" drew in a huge audience, with over 18 million viewers tuning in to watch the production. It became NBC's highest-rated night of television in nearly seven years.

Overall, "The Sound of Music Live!" was a valiant effort to bring the beloved musical to a wider audience, and while it had its shortcomings, it was still an entertaining and enjoyable performance that captured the heart of the original story.