- Australian singer-songwriter Michael Paynter has been cast as music legend John Farnham in Whispering Jack: The John Farnham Musical.
- The musical will premiere at Roslyn Packer Theatre this November.
- Paynter says that being cast is an honour that is “hard to put into words”.
Last September, Sydney’s theatre and music fans were thrilled when it was revealed that Australian icon John Farnham would be the subject of his very own musical.
Titled Whispering Jack: The John Farnham Musical, the production will bring to life the extraordinary story behind the album that made John Farnham a household name and Whispering Jack the highest-selling Australian album of all time.
After much speculation about who would take on the coveted role of John Farnham, Sydney Theatre Company, Michael Cassel, and Gaynor Wheatley have revealed that Australian singer-songwriter Michael Paynter will step into his shoes.
Paynter is no stranger to John Farnham’s catalogue, even performing some of his hits as part of the setlist for his upcoming The Great Australian Songbook national tour. The rising star also played the same role as Farnham in Jesus Christ Superstar, 30 years after the legendary vocalist starred in the original Australian production.
Many have observed similarities between the two performers, with four-time Helpmann Award-winning director Mitchell Butel stating that when he witnessed Paynter’s rendition of Gethsemane in Jesus Christ Superstar, he instantly knew he could be the perfect John:
“When I watched Michael in Jesus Christ Superstar, his voice and performance took my breath away. During our audition process, it’s been a joy watching Michael unlock a warmth and charm and wit that is spookily Farnham-like as well.”
Michael Cassel also stressed that it was ‘’an enormous responsibility’’ to find the right performer to portray John Farnham. ‘’When Michael Paynter auditioned, his extraordinary vocal ability and emotional connection to the material immediately set him apart. There was a palpable sense of excitement in the room, and it was clear we were witnessing something exceptional.”
Paynter, who just last week celebrated his 40th birthday, expressed his admiration for Farnham, reflecting on both his legacy and the profound influence he’d had on him personally:
“For me, John Farnham is the absolute zenith of male singers in all of history. The gold standard that I have spent my entire life being blessed and instructed by. After the whirlwind of the last year, being chosen to be a part of this musical, on the Sydney Theatre Company stage, is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
What to expect from the musical
The musical will commemorate the 40th anniversary of Farnham’s legendary album, packing in a soundtrack of iconic hits and nostalgic moments.
Transporting the audience to a suburban Melbourne garage in 1986, the production follows John Farnham and his manager Glenn Wheatley during a pivotal moment in Farnham’s career. Approaching middle age and facing financial struggles, Farnham began recording an album that would ultimately redefine his place in Australian music.
That album, Whispering Jack, featuring the anthemic lead single You’re the Voice, became a cultural staple, turning Farnham into a household name and cementing his status as a national treasure.
How to get tickets
Tickets went live at 9am on February 2, and are available to purchase here.
Circle B Reserve and Stalls B reserve tickets start at $129 for adults, with Under 30s able to secure their seat for $79.
Whispering Jack: The John Farnham Musical
Where: Roslyn Packer Theatre, 22 Hickson Rd, Walsh Bay NSW 2000.
When: November 15 to December 20, 2026.
Price: From $79 for Under-30s, $129 for adults.
