Mel Giedroyc has been announced as one of the latest cast members to join the live broadcast of The Sound of Music. The Great British Bake Off presenter, who starred in the BAFTA-nominated comedy series Sadie J, will take on the role of Frau Schmidt.
Frau Schmidt is the housekeeper who looks after the von Trapp home, and is known by fans as a strong and stoic character who carries out her job efficiently, but with little affection.
The two and a half hour musical will be broadcast live on ITV this Christmas.
© Photo: Getty ImagesMel Giedroyc will take on the role of housekeeper Frau Schmidt
Alongside 47-year-old Mel, other cast members were confirmed by the TV network this week. Olivier Award-winning actress Maria Friedman, who starred in Chicago and The Woman in White, will play dear Mother Abbess.
Taking centre stage is Kara Tointon who will play Maria, while Julian Ovenden will portray Captain Georg von Trapp.
"I'm thrilled and excited to be taking on the iconic role of Maria in The Sound of Music Live!," said Kara. "I'm looking forward to bringing this character to life for ITV viewers and to follow in the footsteps of some great actresses who have played Maria on stage and film."
© Photo: Getty ImagesTaking centre stage is Kara Tointon who will play Maria
The part of Leisl, the eldest of the von Trapp children, will be played by Evelyn Hoskins. The 27-year-old Misfits star will perform the classic song 16 going on 17 alongside Jon Tarcy, who will play her love interest and Nazi soldier Rolf Gruber.
Katherine Kelly, 35, will play Baroness Elsa Schraeder.
Rehearsals have already begun for the musical drama, which has been dubbed the "must see" programme of the year by ITV.
Based on the original stage musical, The Sound of Music Live! will feature songs from the classic score by Rodgers and Hammerstein, including How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria, Edelweiss, Do-Re-Mi, My Favourite Things, Climb Ev'ry Mountain and the title song.
