John Farnham’s Musical ‘Whispering Jack’ to Premiere in Sydney in 2026

New Musical Celebrating John Farnham to Premiere in Sydney

A stage musical honoring the career of John Farnham is set to debut in Sydney later this year. Titled Whispering Jack: The John Farnham Musical, the production will open on November 15, 2026, at the Roslyn Packer Theatre as part of the Sydney Theatre Company’s season, producers announced on February 2.

Michael Paynter will portray Farnham in the musical. Paynter, who recently led the 2025 Australian season of Jesus Christ Superstar, has previously toured with Farnham and performed with groups such as ICEHOUSE and Jimmy Barnes’ touring bands.

“To be asked to help tell the story of the greatest voice this country has ever produced is an honor that is very hard to put into words,” Paynter remarked. “For me, John Farnham is the absolute zenith of male singers in all of history.”

Originally released in 1986, Whispering Jack became the highest-selling Australian album of all time and marked a pivotal moment in Farnham’s career. The musical will explore the creation and legacy of this iconic album, which features the hit song “You’re the Voice,” a chart-topping track that held the number one spot on the Australian singles chart for seven consecutive weeks.

Producer Gaynor Wheatley noted that the decision to cast Paynter 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 stated.

Mitchell Butel, artistic director, affirmed the choice, citing Paynter’s impressive performance in Jesus Christ Superstar. “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 currently available through the Sydney Theatre Company.