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The much-anticipated live television production of Rodgers’ and Hammerstein’s ‘The Sound of Music’ airs Thursday, Dec. 5 on NBC.

Carrie Underwood stars as Maria von Trapp in the three-hour holiday event two days after the soundtrack was released by Sony Masterworks. The CD features a playlist of 22 songs that will be sung live tonight.

The country singer had to shed her twang to become the 1938 persona of a nun turned governess who helps to restore Captain Georg von Trapp’s relationship with his seven spirited children.

Co-starring with the former ‘American Idol’ winner: Stephen Moyer, Audra McDonald, Laura Benanti, and Christian Borle — all veterans of Broadway and three of them Tony Award winners.

NBC chairman Bob Greenblatt said in a statement, “Speaking for everyone at NBC, we wouldn’t be happier to have the gifted Carrie Underwood take up the mantle of the great Maria von Trapp. She was an iconic woman who will now be played by an iconic artist.”

Underwood tweeted Tuesday, “Incredible run-through of the show tonight! I’m literally in tears! Hopefully we can be this great Thurs! Can’t wait! #TheSoundOfMusicLive”

The telecast DVD will be released on December 17, 2013 — just in time for Christmas.

Check out a short promo clip for tonight’s live production:

Photo: Facebook-Sound of Music