Spider-Man to spin web on Broadway

NEW YORK, April 20 (UPI) -- As the U.S. theatrical release of "Spider-Man 3" nears, plans call for the web-spinning hero to croon Broadway tunes penned by U2's Bono and The Edge.

First readings for "Spider-Man: The Musical" are scheduled in July for the stage production directed by "Lion King" director Julie Taymor, the New York Post said Friday.

"We are very excited," David Maisel, Marvel Studios chairman, said. "The all-star creative team -- led by Julie Taymor, Bono and The Edge -- is second to none, and we are certain this project will delight fans of Spider-Man and new audiences alike."

Maisel said Taymor, Bono and The Edge have a "great passion" for the web-slinging crime fighter.

Thursday's announcement of the musical, estimated to cost about $15 million, comes at busy time for Spider-Man and his alter ego, Peter Parker of Queens. The city declared April 30-May 6 as "Spider-Man Week in NYC." The movie premieres May 4 during the Tribeca Film Festival.