Audra McDonald Discusses Channeling Billie Holiday in Lady Day and Always Saying Yes

What a little studio light can do! Tony winner Audra McDonald stopped by NewsNation to discuss with Tamron Hall her latest Broadway role: Billie Holiday in Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill. McDonald shared what it’s like to portray such a legendary performer who “regardless of all the knocks, still rose to the top.” “In the end,” McDonald explains, “it was her music that survived…she would tell anybody who got close to her, ‘don’t do what I did. You stay away from these drugs.’” What guidance would McDonald herself give to her own fans and supporters? “Be you. That’s what’s most special…always say yes to yourself.” Take a look at the interview below and catch Lady Day, which recently announced an extension through August 10, at the Circle in the Square Theatre!