Julianne Hough joins 'Rock Of Ages'

Julianne Hough has joined the cast of upcoming musical Rock Of Ages.

The singer and former Dancing With The Stars professional has signed on to appear alongside Tom Cruise in director Adam Shankman's adaptation of the Broadway production.

She will play Kansas-born Sherrie, who arrives in Hollywood with dreams of an acting career, says The Hollywood Reporter. Cruise has been cast as rockstar Stacee Jaxx.

"It was killing me on the plane!" wrote Hough on her Twitter account after the news was confirmed. "Adam Shankman called me right as I was taking off to Nashville... Killed me I couldn't tell anyone ahhhhh (sic)."

She added: "Seriously you guys!!! I'm dying right now... I'm so excited and can't wait for this journey of Becoming Sherri! It all starts... NOW!!! :)"

Hough, who recently appeared in Burlesque, later received a congratulatory message on Twitter from brother Derek, who wrote: "Wahoo!!! Congrats to my little Sis for getting Rock of Ages .. Incredible ... So proud babe .. Love you."

Rock Of Ages begins filming later this year.