There are some artists that attribute hard work and dedication to forming their extraordinary talents. Others put in the effort, but their natural talent seems to shine through. In the case of actress and singer Audra McDonald, with her record-breaking six Tonys, her extraordinary natural talent is very apparent. A native of Fresno, CA, she attended Julliard and then became a Tony Winner for Best Performance by a Featured Actress for her work in Carousel a year after graduating.
Her Tony list began to rapidly grow, receiving accolades for her performances in Terrance McNally’s “Master Class” and Rag Time and Lorraine Hansberry’s “Raisin in the Sun”. Her most recent awards acknowledged her performances in The Gerswin’s Porgy and Bess, and her portrayal of jazz legend Billie Holiday in Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill. She is not only a multi-talented gem of the musical theatre realm, but a generous humanitarian, offering her support to Covenant House, a organization that reaches out to homeless youth.
Her love of people is apparent in her interaction with the audience. Even if seated in the back balcony of Kodak, it was nearly impossible to not be engaged by McDonald’s infectious energy. During her playful rendition of “I Could Have Danced All Night,” the audience was invited to sing along during the last verses. She even acknowledged the singing talents of an audience member in the front row.
When McDonald inquired about the girl’s major, she responded that it was in Public Health. “Well, if you ever come to Broadway, it’s on!” McDonald replied with a smile. McDonald successfully delivered an array of pieces that ranged from a gutsy version of “Maybe This Time” from Cabaret to a stirring rendition of Henry Mancini’s “Moon River.” She demonstrated impressive diaphragmatic control in “I Can’t Stop Talkin’ About Him” from Annie Get Your Gun, which had been one of her senior recital pieces.
Although delivering a rapid succession of notes, her diction was impeccable. She made a sincere and compelling delivery of every song. Her acting ability was especially highlighted in Stephen Sondheim’s “Moments in the Woods” which tells about the surprising romantic encounter of a baker’s wife with Cinderella’s prince. McDonald’s delivery was not only entertaining, but by the conclusion of every song, I felt as if I had learned something valuable from each character she had momentarily transformed into.
The night concluded with an inspirational rendition of “Climb Every Mountain.” I realized that every musician goes through the process of working painstakingly at their craft for years to truly master it. But, after attending McDonald’s performance, she has inspired me, as a singer and as a person to never stop practicing, trying, or fully experiencing life and the enriching experience that the arts can provide.
Kibler is a member of
the class of 2017.
