I am a big fan of the High School Musical franchise because it’s an upbeat movie musical that’s refreshing to watch with my daughter.  As hokie as it might sound, I love listening to my daughter sing the songs from the Disney franchise.

Since July 2008 Disney has been pushing a major PR, marketing campaign for the next installment, High School Musical: Senior Year.  Validated by the fact that advance ticket sales for the musical started yesterday — the movie opens October 23rd.

At Jim Hill Media speculation is that the Disney franchise is gearing up to keep the energy and excitement up in the stars for HSM – 4, which is in development.

Disney feels they have a hot, hot idea for the fourth HSM.

The plot starts on a simple story threat from HSM – 3 (spoilers!!).

Near the end of the film, Mrs. Darbus, Drama teacher, suddenly announces that she’s going on a sabbatical for the next school year and names Sharpay Evens as her temporary replacement.

Due to the fact that Sharpay tangled with Tiara, a new transfer student to East High, who is introduced in HSM-3. The beautiful Brit — at first — appears nice. Not so, Tiara eventually reveals her colors, just as big a schemer as Sharpay is.

That’s the next HSM-4, dueling Divas, with Sharpay calling the shots in the drama department while Tiara tries everything to get in good graces with her former mentor and eventually come out on top.

Will Troy and Gabriella return?

Hard to say; it won’t be an inexpensive ticket for Disney either — that’s for sure.

Zach Efron made $3 million and Vanessa Hudgens made $2 million for HSM-3.

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