Variety reports that Shankman will direct both Disney's "Bob the Musical" and Sony's "Sinbad." "Bob the Musical," according to the industry paper, "centers on a mild-mannered man who suddenly hears the 'inner song' of people's hearts after being struck on the head." "Sinbad" centers on "Sinbad and his crew, who are marooned off the coast of China and embark on a quest to find the lamp of Aladdin."

Shankman told Variety, "Ever since 'Hairspray,' I've been desperate to do another musical. The idea of working with all original music is thrilling. With 'Bob the Musical,' I'll be working again with ('Hairspray' composer) Marc Shaiman. And 'Sinbad' gives me the opportunity to really stretch my imagination as far as I can take it."

Shankman's newest project is the Adam Sandler film "Bedtime Stories," which is due to open Christmas Day. Other projects include a Disney film for Miley Cyrus based on a book by Nicholas Sparks.