Neil Patrick Harris Gears Up For Tonys

The Star Of "How I Met Your Mother" Talked Pre-Show Nerves And Advice From Former Hosts On "The Early Show"

(CBS)  Neil Patrick Harris has been a star on the small screen and the stage, but he’ll be taking on both this Sunday night at the 63rd Annual Tony Awards at Radio City Music Hall in New York.

The star of the hit television show "How I Met Your Mother" isn’t a stranger to The Great White Way. He has performed in three Broadway shows, including "Cabaret," "Proof," and "Assassins."

But this is Harris’ first time hosting an awards show.

And on Friday, Harris appeared on The Early Show to talk about his preparations for the hosting role.

Harris said he’s only gotten nervous in recent days as he’s promoted the show, with everyone asking him how nervous he feels.

Early Show co-anchor Maggie Rodriguez asked Harris about advice he’s gotten from former hosts, Hugh Jackman and Whoopi Goldberg.

Harris said Goldberg told him to always have fun and "be positive about stuff," and Jackman told him that between the long commercial breaks Harris should try to keep the audience engaged.

Harris said he's been researching the nominated shows, too.

"I really want to feel like I know what I'm talking about," he told CBS News, "and make sure everything is in my voice."

"At the end of the day, I’m a big proponent of theater and people going and seeing shows live," Harris said. "...So it’s easy for me to stand there in Radio City and encourage people to see these unbelievable shows, which we’re going to be presenting for the first time in high (definition)."

Harris said high definition is going to be a great way to experience the show because viewers will actually feel like they’re at Radio City.

Harris added the awards show will open with a large singing number featuring Dolly Parton, Elton John, Liza Minelli, and all the nominated shows. He said he won't be a part of that act, but said he may get a chance to sing sometime during the evening’s show.

The Tony Awards will air at 8/7 Central on CBS.

"How I Met Your Mother" is on CBS Monday nights at 8 p.m.