'Hairspray' helmer for 'Rock of Ages'

Rex Features

Hairspray director Adam Shankman will reportedly helm the big screen adaptation of Rock of Ages.

The Broadway hit has a soundtrack, which includes '80s acts such as Foreigner, Joan Jett, REO Speedwagon, Journey, Pat Benatar and Bon Jovi.

It follows the story of two people who meet at LA nightclub Rock Of Ages only to be torn apart by their rock 'n' roll lifestyles. Shooting begins next summer, ready for a release date in 2011, Variety reports.

The musical's creator, Chris D'Arienzo penned the script, while Tobey Maguire is among the producers.

"I had the best time of my life making Hairspray and badly wanted another musical, and when I watched Rock of Ages, I was struck by the fact that not only had much of the audience seen it more than once, every guy in the audience knew the words to the songs," said Shankman.

"What an extraordinary opportunity to open the genre to an audience that otherwise wouldn't go see a musical."