First Cast Announcement for ‘Moana’: Dwayne Johnson will Voice Maui

Superstar actor Dwayne Johnson has officially confirmed (via Twitter) that he is the first to join the cast of Disney’s upcoming animated musical adventure film Moana.

Excited to star as "Maui" in Disney's next big animated musical, MOANA. Incredible story! **clears throat #TimeToSing http://t.co/mtuvFgRkaE

— Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) December 3, 2014

In the film, he will be providing the voice of Maui, the demigod who teams up with sea navigator Moana Waialiki on her journey to save her family.

His tweet also reinforced the musical component of the film, which is interesting given that Dwayne isn’t known for his musical talents. But it certainly wouldn’t be the first time that an actor with no prior musical skills took on a film with musical elements.

We’ll definitely keep you updated as future cast announcements begin to roll out.

Ron Clements and John Musker are directing the film, which will feature a new, ‘painterly’ style of CG. Here’s the official plot synopsis down below:

In the ancient South Pacific world of Oceania, Moana, a born navigator, sets sail in search of a fabled island. During her incredible journey, she teams up with her hero, the legendary demi-god Maui, to traverse the open ocean on an action-packed voyage, encountering enormous sea creatures, breathtaking underworlds and ancient folklore.

Moana will arrive in theaters March 4, 2016.

What do you think? Any thoughts on Dwayne Johnson’s casting? Any examples of of actors who took on musicals for the first time (animated or otherwise)?

[UPDATE] It has just come to our attention that Disney is now conducting a worldwide talent search for an actress to voice the title character Moana herself. The studio is currently looking for female actresses between the ages of 14-18 (although, I’m sure if someone who was older was a good fit, they wouldn’t say no). A strong singing voice is listed as a ‘must’. For more information, visit the website here.