A stage musical celebrating the career of John Farnham will premiere in Sydney later this year.
Whispering Jack: The John Farnham Musical is set to debut Nov. 15, 2026, at Roslyn Packer Theatre as part of the Sydney Theatre Company’s season, producers announced Monday (Feb. 2).
The production will star Michael Paynter in the role of Farnham. Paynter recently led the 2025 Australian season of Jesus Christ Superstar and has previously toured with Farnham, in addition to performing as a member of ICEHOUSE and Jimmy Barnes’ touring bands.
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“To be asked to help tell the story of the greatest voice this country has ever produced is an honour that is very hard to put into words,” Paynter said in a statement. “For me, John Farnham is the absolute zenith of male singers in all of history.”
Released in 1986, Whispering Jack became the highest-selling Australian album of all time and marked a defining turning point in Farnham’s career. The musical will focus on the creation and legacy of the album, which includes the hit “You’re the Voice,” which topped the Australian singles chart for seven consecutive weeks and became one of the country’s best-selling songs.
Producer Gaynor Wheatley said Paynter’s casting followed an extensive search. “When Michael Paynter performed the material for the first time, there was an immediate sense of recognition in the room,” she said.
Artistic director Mitchell Butel added that Paynter’s performance in Jesus Christ Superstar confirmed the decision. “John Farnham is more than just an incredible voice,” Butel said. “He is the ultimate showman and musical storyteller.”
Tickets for Whispering Jack: The John Farnham Musical are on sale now via the Sydney Theatre Company.
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