McDonald returns to 'Porgy and Bess' Audra McDonald of "The Gershwins' Porgy and Bess," winner of "Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical," poses for photographer during the 66th Annual Tony Awards held at the Beacon Theatre on June 10, 2012 in New York City. UPI/Monika Graff NEW YORK, July 5 (UPI) -- Audra McDonald has returned to Broadway's "Porgy and Bess" after two weeks of doctor-ordered vocal rest, the musical's producers said. McDonald won a Tony Award last month for her portrayal of Bess in the show, which also was named Best Revival of a Musical. She had been on a period of complete vocal rest since June 20 because of inflammation of her vocal cords, stemming from an earlier respiratory infection. The tragic love story began previews Dec. 17 and officially opened Jan. 12 at the Richard Rodgers Theatre in Manhattan. This is the first time "Porgy and Bess" has been seen on the Broadway stage in more than 35 years.