The start of something new begins at the end of summer

Will Troy and Gabriella finally kiss? Will Sharpay learn to play well with others? These questions and more will be answered this summer.

The highly anticipated original movie sequel, "High School Musical 2," will make its premiere on the Disney Channel on Friday, Aug. 17, the network announced Tuesday.

All the stars return from the first hit movie to participate in a summer extravaganza at a posh country club. Troy (Zac Efron) lands a job at the Albuquerque club and then maneuvers a lifeguard position for Gabriella (Vanessa Anne Hudgens) to join him, little knowing that diva Sharpay (Ashley Tisdale) wants to keep them apart.

The rest of the East High Wildcats -- Chad, Taylor, Zeke, Martha, Kelsi and Jason -- also join in the fun and are gearing up for the Midsummer Night's Talent Show, in which Troy and Gabriella may just score a winning duet, unless Sharpay can stop them. Other returning cast members include Lucas Grabeel, Corbin Bleu, Monique Coleman, Olesya Rulin, KayCee Stroh and Ryne Sanborn.

The Emmy Award-winning Kenny Ortega returns as director.

The original "High School Musical" TV movie became a cable channel phenomenon, spawning top-selling soundtracks, DVDs and even a concert tour. Already another sequel, "Haunted High School Musical," has been planned, but this time for a 2008 theatrical release.