ABC taking 'High School' into reality

BURBANK, Calif., July 20 (UPI) -- ABC is offering a new reality TV series tied into Disney's "High School Musical," the new U.S. program's host says.

Nick Lachey, host of "High School Musical: Get in the Picture," said the reality series, which was to premiere Sunday night, will allow fans of the TV movie to embrace its spirit by auditioning, Zap2it.com reported.

"'High School Musical' has captured the spirit of that age," Lachey said. "Don't grow up so fast. Enjoy being a teenager. Enjoy being that age because you will never get it back."

Contestants will audition for a chance to enter the televised competition, which will chose one lucky winner to star in a video featured in the credits of "High School Musical 3."

The new Disney movie is due out in theaters this October and Lachey says even those young fans unacquainted with the performing arts will enjoy the series and its related movies, the Web site said.

"You don't have to be into the performing arts to enjoy 'High School Musical,'" Lachey said.