Newcomer Kenny Wormald will star as Ren McCormack in the film from Academy Award-winning producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron.

Craig Brewer ("Hustle & Flow"), who will also direct the picture, is the latest screenwriter to deliver a new contemporary adaptation of the film. Director-choreographer Kenny Ortega was slated to helm and choreograph the film but departed the project in 2009. Brewer also takes over for Academy Award-nominated screenwriter Susannah Grant ("Erin Brockovich").

Jamal Sims, who choreographed Rent at the Hollywood Bowl, will give "Footloose" its signature dance moves.

Wormald steps into the role originated by Kevin Bacon on screen. "High School Musical" actor Zac Efron and "Gossip Girl" cast member Chace Crawford had previously been announced to star.

"Footloose" will also feature Julianne Hough as Ariel Moore, Dennis Quaid as Reverend Moore, Andie MacDowell as Vi Moore and Miles Teller as Willard.

"When we discovered Kevin Bacon in 1984, we were both excited and gratified – and also knew the chances of ever duplicating that effort was a million to one shot. Decades later Kenny Wormald proved history could repeat itself," Zadan said in a previous statement. "We've wanted to work with Brewer ever since we saw 'Hustle & Flow.' His fresh and contemporary vision will bring 'Footloose' to a whole new generation of moviegoers when the movie opens in 2011."

Previous reports stated that new songs are being written for the "Footloose" remake, which will also include many of the hits from the original, including "Let's Hear It for the Boy," "Almost Paradise," "Holding Out for a Hero" and the title track.

The original film starred Kevin Bacon and was later adapted into a 1998 stage musical under the direction of Walter Bobbie.