Original screenwriter John Waters, according to Shankman, has submitted an outline and ideas for the sequel, and writers are currently being sought for the film. The second film musical will follow zaftig dancer Tracy Turnblad and the Corny Collins gang into what Shankman describes as the "next era of music," the late 1960's. "That period was superpolitical, it was a time of serious change," he explained.
Shankman also said that the character of Link Larkin, portrayed by Zac Efron in the film musical, will become steeped in the Beatles-fueled British Invasion. "We're trying to track, in a comedic way, the historical elements," Shankman commented. No casting been announced.
As previously reported, Shankman will direct and choreograph the "Hairspray" sequel, which will be produced by Neil Meron and Craig Zadan and will feature new songs penned by Hairspray songwriters Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman.
