John Farnham’s remarkable comeback to fame is set to be celebrated in a new musical, Whispering Jack: The John Farnham Musical, directed by Mitchell Butel, artistic director of the Sydney Theatre Company. This production will honour the 40th anniversary of Whispering Jack, which remains Australia’s highest-selling album of all time. The musical follows Farnham’s inspiring journey, detailing how he transformed from a struggling artist in the 1980s to a music icon.
In 1986, Farnham was facing significant challenges. He had recently distanced himself from extensive tours with The Little River Band and was burdened by financial troubles. Living in a modest home in Bulleen, a suburb of Melbourne, he was a new father, grappling with a lack of opportunities in the music industry. “He was cash-strapped, middle-aged, a new dad, and living in a run-down house,” Butel explained, highlighting the stark contrast between Farnham’s past glory and his present circumstances.
A Revival of Fortune
The story of Whispering Jack is one of resilience. Recorded in the garage of Farnham’s rental home, the album marked a pivotal moment in his career, reigning at No.1 for a record-breaking 25 weeks from 1986 to 1987. It was not only a commercial success but also regained him the musical credibility he desperately sought. “For me, it has always been about the songs,” Farnham stated. “From Sadie to You’re the Voice, I am forever grateful for both these songs and the people who connect with my music.”
The creation of the album was fraught with challenges. Gaynor Wheatley, whose husband Glenn Wheatley was instrumental in financing the album, recalled the immense risk involved in its production. At the time, record labels were hesitant to back Farnham, viewing him as a once-popular teen idol with a fading appeal. Despite these doubts, the team believed in the music. “It was all about finding the songs that resonated,” Wheatley remarked, indicating the strategic effort behind the album’s success.
World Premiere and Future Prospects
Whispering Jack: The John Farnham Musical is one of three world premieres featured in the Sydney Theatre Company’s upcoming season. This marks Butel’s first major production since taking over from Kip Williams. Additionally, the company will stage the acclaimed drama Purpose, which has won both a Tony Award and a Pulitzer Prize, marking a significant moment for the theatre community.
The anticipation surrounding Farnham’s musical is palpable, as it promises to not only entertain but also inspire. As the production progresses, it is poised to remind audiences of the power of music and the indomitable spirit of an artist who overcame adversity to reclaim his place in the limelight.
With the musical in production, fans are eager to witness this compelling chapter of Farnham’s life come to life on stage, celebrating a legacy that continues to resonate in the hearts of many.
