A new musical about the life of Australian music legend John Farnham and his iconic 1986 album, Whispering Jack, will premiere next year.
Timed to coincide with the 40th anniversary of the Australian music icon’s record-breaking album, Whispering Jack: The John Farnham Musical will debut at Sydney Theatre Company (STC) in November 2026.
The musical comes from famous Australian producer Michael Cassel, as well as Gaynor Wheatley and STC artistic director Mitchell Butel.
Per a release from the Michael Cassel Group on Monday: “Whispering Jack: The John Farnham Musical takes audiences behind the scenes of the five extraordinary years that redefined Farnham’s career, from a broke former teen idol to the voice of a nation. The musical explores the personal and creative stakes behind the making of Whispering Jack, the highest-selling Australian album of all time. At its heart is the story of the people who stood beside him: Jill Farnham, his wife and pillar of strength, and Glenn Wheatley, his manager and friend who risked everything to make the dream a reality.”
The musical will include hits from the famous album as well as Farnham’s extensive catalogue.
“Musicals have always held a very special place in my heart as it’s where I met Jill,” Farnham said in a statement.
“To see this part of my story brought to life on stage is an adventure that might just require you strapping on your seatbelt! For me it has always been about the songs. From “Sadie” to “You’re the Voice”, I am forever grateful for both these songs and the people who connect with my music.”
Cassel added: “This is more than a new musical – it’s a celebration of an artist who defined generations and a moment in time that changed Australian music forever and formed part of the DNA of this country.
“Whispering Jack is a story of resilience, creativity, and finding your voice, themes that feel as urgent and universal today as they did in 1986. To be working alongside someone as passionate as Gaynor Wheatley, and to be premiering this production as a development production allows us the rare chance to refine the work in front of an audience before it reaches its next stage.
“To do so with Sydney Theatre Company is an added gift. We hope this is just the beginning of something very special.”
Tickets will be available as part of STC’s 2026 Season subscription packages. General Public single ticket on-sale details will be announced at a later date For more details, click here.
