Adam Shankman to Direct Ballet-Themed Drama VAMP for ABC

Deadline reports that Adam Shankman will harken back to his dancing days to helm a new ballet-themed drama project for ABC to be titled VAMP.

Amy B. Harris (The Carrie Diaries) will write and executive produce the project which follows "a ballerina who comes to New York with her mother - a woman who gave up her dreams for her family - only to find her mother's past in Manhattan may affect her future. Looking for release from the rigors of ballet and the society world she doesn't understand, this young ingénue finds her escape dancing at Vamp - New York City's most decadent and outrageous nightclub."

Shankman will also serve as executive producer with his sister Jennifer Gibgot through their Offspring Entertainment (Step Up movie franchise, Hairspray). Early in his career, the 'Hairspray' directer moved to New York to attend Julliard's dance program but ultimately dropped out to pursue dance in musical theater. He went on to become a choreographer, director and producer.

Shankman's directing credits include the film versions of Hairspray, which received three Golden Globe nominations including Best Picture-Musical or Comedy, and Rock of Ages, starring Tom Cruise. His other film directing credits include A Walk to Remember, and The Wedding Planner. Adam has also directed episodes for the hit television series GLEE and MODERN FAMILY and choreographed the musical episode of Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

A Los Angeles local, Adam Shankman began his career as a dance and choreographer, appearing in music videos for Janet Jackson and Paula Abdul. Soon after, he began choreographing films such as Boogie Nights, Catch Me If You Can, and the Step Up Series. In 2009, he became a permanent judge on So You Think You Can Dance?, and in 2010 was one of the two producers for the 82nd Academy Awards, a telecast which earned a record 12 Emmy nominations, including two for Shankman for producing and choreographing.