Longbottom, Variety reports, conceived the idea for the new musical with Disney's Thomas Schumacher. The show features songs from the Disney canon — both from classic Disney films and Disney's Broadway outings — and will be set in a recording studio. The musical will eventually play theatres across the country and possibly Broadway. As a director/choreographer, Robert Longbottom's Broadway credits include Side Show, The Scarlet Pimpernel and Flower Drum Song. He began his career as a performer, appearing in the New York productions of 42nd Street, Little Johnny Jones and Me and My Girl.
Since debuting on Broadway a decade ago with Beauty and the Beast, Disney Theatrical has also presented two other current musicals, Aida and The Lion King. Disney's upcoming projects include Mary Poppins (in a joint production with Cameron Mackintosh), Little Mermaid and Tarzan.
For more information about Disney productions, visit http://disney.go.com/disneytheatrical/index.html.
