Baldwin joins Blige and Cruise in 'Rock of Ages'

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The film adaptation of the Broadway hit musical Rock of Ages will star Tom Cruise in the lead role as Stacee Jaxx and now Alec Baldwin ( It's Complicated, The Departed) will join singer Mary J. Blige in the cast, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Also, former Dancing with the Stars professional dancer and country singer Julianne Hough ( Burlesque) is finalizing her role as Sherrie, the small-town girl who comes to Hollywood in search of fame and fortune. Singer Taylor Swift had been rumored to be up for the role.

Russell Brand ( Get Him to the Greek) could also be coming aboard the project.

A Golden Globe winner for television show 30 Rock, Baldwin will play Dennis Dupree, owner of The Bourbon Room, a fictional Hollywood club. In the musical version, Dupree sings Europe's "The Final Countdown" as he struggles to keep his venue open.

Adam Shankman ( Hairspray) will direct and produce along with actor Tobey Maguire. He previously worked with Baldwin on the 2010 Academy Awards, which he co-produced and Baldwin co-hosted.

The story follows a successful late 1980s rock band, its charismatic frontman and his love interest. The musical features performances of songs by Journey, Pat Benatar, Twisted Sister, Asia, Bon Jovi, and other rock bands from the era.

Production expects to begin in May for a 2012 release in theaters.

RC