Alan Menken, the Oscar-winning composer of Disney hits such as 'Beauty and the Beast' and 'The Little Mermaid,' is at work on a musical series for ABC. This is the third musical show in development at the network.

According to Deadline Hollywood, Menken is teaming with Oscar-nominated lyricist David Zippel and comedy writer Marco Pennette for the new project described as a mix between 'Rent' and 'St. Elmo's Fire.'

The project could feature two or three original songs per episode. It's set to follow a young musician who lives with other artists as the try to make it big.

In other TV news ...

• Adrienne Barbeau will guest star on 'CSI: NY.' The former 'Maude' star will play a clinic manager who plays a key role in an investigation. [Entertainment Weekly]

• 'The Fugitive' producer Alan A. Armer has died. The Emmy winner lost his battle to colon cancer on Dec. 5 at the age of 88. [Hollywood Reporter]

• Starz has bought a comedy script from nightlife guru Brent Bolthouse. The project follows a group of people who cross paths during a Los Angeles night. Bolthouse co-created and developed the project with 'Weeds' writer Vanessa Riesen. [Deadline Hollywood]

• 'Men of a Certain Age' ratings are down compared to last year. The TNT show pulled in 2.4 million viewers. Last season the show's lowest was 3.2 million viewers. [Hollywood Reporter]

• Disney ordered a pilot of 'Austin and Ally,' a show being described as 'Entourage' for kids. The series follows a 15-year-old singer who becomes famous on YouTube. [Variety]