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Richard Piatt and Tom Callan reporting East High School is again center stage for "High School Musical 3." But there was a bidding war among several states who also wanted to host the production. The decision came down to an affection for this location and financial incentives that have become the reality in the film world.
The stars of the "High School Musical" trilogy are creating a buzz of excitement at the real East High these days, and among the entertainment reporters there, priority No. 1 is fishing for clues about what's next.
Zac Efron, who plays Troy Bolton, was asked how this third musical will be different from the other two hits. "We're kind of deciding for ourselves what we're going to do with our futures, whether it be college; I know for my character, basketball is a huge priority," he said.
Vanessa Hudgens, who plays Gabriella Montez, refused to give away the romantic plot. "You definitely see relationships blossom. I'm not gonna give it away, but it's really good," she said.
But for Gov. Jon Huntsman, the excitement is not confined to his star-smitten family. It's the implications that hosting this film has for Utah's economy. "The entire state of Utah is very proud of the work that has been done," he said.
As an element of economic development, the film industry is of specific interest for the governor. Disney Pictures has already invested in Utah for "High School Musical" parts one and two. But for number three, financial incentives poured in from other states, creating competition.
The most aggressive was New Mexico, offering about a $3 million "rebate." It was a stretch for Utah to create a $2 million incentive.
"We had to work very hard to go the governor and show him what was on the table, go to the Legislature saying: Here is what's at stake if we don't come up with a suitable incentive," explained Marshall Moore, director of the Utah Film Commission.
The film's producer, Don Schain, said, "Film has become such an incentive game these days, and Governor Huntsman was able to find a way to work outside the box."
This year, a $6 million incentive fund will help produce a $40 million boost to the state's economy. But Utah is limited in what it can do for big productions. Some are working to remove an incentive cap and create tax credits.
But for the stars, being back in Utah also has its own reward. "I love Salt Lake," said Ashley Tisdale, who plays Sharpay Evans.
"I can't imagine filming this movie anywhere else," Efron said.
Hudgens added, "Just being here feels like home with everyone. It's amazing."
"High School Musical 3: Senior Year" starts production tomorrow morning. Film crews will be here for several weeks spending the most money of the three productions here in Salt Lake City. The movie will hit theaters in October.
E-mail: rpiatt@ksl.com
E-mail: tcallan@ksl.com
