The acclaimed singing actress will emcee seven "Live From Lincoln Center" broadcasts beginning with "The Richard Tucker Opera Gala" on Dec. 13 and continuing through spring 2013.

McDonald, who was most recently on Broadway in the revival of The Gershwins' Porgy and Bess, said in a statement, "I grew up watching 'Live From Lincoln Center' and Beverly Sills, the great soprano who used to regularly host the series, was such an inspiration to me. Ever since I moved to New York to attend The Juilliard School, I’ve spent so much of my life at Lincoln Center that I consider it my home away from home. Needless to say, I was incredibly honored when 'Live From Lincoln Center' invited me to become the host for this season."

“Audra’s Lincoln Center roots run deep and wide,” added Elizabeth Scott, Chief Media and Digital Officer for Lincoln Center, and executive in charge of the series. "She’s performed on every major Lincoln Center stage, and her appearances on 'Live From Lincoln Center' are among the most enduring presentations in the series’ 37-year history. We’re thrilled that this consummate artist – whose passion for the performing arts is infectious – will be the new face of Live From Lincoln Center. We can’t imagine a more perfect match."

McDonald, as previously reported, will take part in the "Live From Lincoln Center" broadcast of "One Singular Sensation: Celebrating Marvin Hamlisch." She will also host that New Year's Eve tribute to the late composer of A Chorus Line.