The TV Zone

Here's some big news from the land of "High School Musical:"

"HSM" will return to TV next year as an original movie on (where else?) The Disney Channel; this will of course be the fourth.

Details? Not a whole heck of a lot of 'em, but TDC offers this much: "East meets West in a classic love triangle set against the cross-town school rivalry between the East High Wildcats and West High Knights...

And..."It will include a new cast of characters..." Gary Marsh, the TDC boss, had this to say in a canned quote:

“The 'High School Musical’ trilogy introduced a new generation to the celebrated genre of movie musicals. In crafting this next iteration, we've challenged the entire creative team to raise the bar again - and create something truly worthy of this extraordinary global phenomenon.”

The old "HSM" team is back - screenwriter Peter Barscocchini, and producers Bill Borden and Barry Rosenbush return as the executive producers.

(AP Photo/Disney Enterprises, Inc. Fred Hayes; yes, that's "HSM: Senior Year.")

You heard about this spin-off/another-surefire-way-to-exploit-"HSM" reality show based on "High School Musical?" It's called “High School Musical: Get in the Picture.” Hosted by Nick Lachey, it's one of those comp series that's looking for the country's most talented teens, etc. Winner won't necessarily get a spot in "HSM III" or "IV" but they will get noticed and get noticed on primetime tv; bows July 20.

In any event, the show will be at Jones Beach on July 5, this Saturday, and Sunday at Robert Moses. Bring your talent and bring your sunscreen.

Press release details: The show will go to to "beaches on both coasts with branded ice cream trucks offering games and prizes. Beach goers will be able to cool off with free ice cream at East and West Coast locations over the 4th of July weekend and on additional dates leading up to the premiere of the show.

"In addition, visitors can win prizes including Kmart gift cards, t-shirts, DVDs and soundtracks, and participate in various games and events, including karaoke, a trivia wheel and a green screen photo booth -- so you can literally 'Get in the Picture' of 'High School Musical.'”

It'll be at parking lot 4 at JB, and Field 5 at RMB.

(Photo: Oooooh! It's Nick...yoohoo, NICK, over here!!! Pix by Gerardo Mora / Getty Images.)