Festival of Voices 2026: Michael Paynter – The Great Australian Songbook
Catch the star of the upcoming John Farnham musical in an exclusive solo performance live in Burnie
Fresh from his award-winning, powerhouse performance as Jesus in the critically acclaimed Australian production of Jesus Christ Superstar, and recently announced to play the legendary John Farnham in the world-premiere musical Whispering Jack, one of Australia’s finest voices is coming to the live stage.
In 2026, Michael Paynter strips back the layers and the volume for an exclusive run of intimate solo shows. The Great Australian Songbook Tour sees the singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist reimagining the nation’s most iconic anthems in a series of special, close-quarters settings across the country.
Known to millions for his soaring vocals on Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight and his multi-platinum hit “Love the Fall” (feat. The Veronicas), Paynter is returning to his acoustic roots. This tour marks a new chapter for the performer, moving from the grandeur of the theatrical stage to the raw connection of a solo performance.
Paynter also remains a sought-after collaborator, performing with iconic Australian artists including ICEHOUSE, Jimmy Barnes, Robbie Williams, Miley Cyrus, and The Veronicas.
Quite simply the voice of our generation. Michael Paynter is untouchable. – The Veronicas
I’ve spent 15 years watching audiences be captivated by Michael’s voice, and this extraordinary show will be no exception. These iconic songs couldn’t be in safer hands. – Iva Davies
It’s so great to see a singer who not only sings beautifully but every time he does sing, it becomes a joyous occasion for everyone in the audience. – Jimmy Barnes
“I am absolutely buzzing to bring this show to life,” says Paynter. “After the massive production of Jesus Christ Superstar, stripping it back to just a guitar and piano is exciting. It’s going to be raw, real, and completely unpredictable. It’s been over a decade since I’ve done anything like this, and I can’t wait to see you there.”
Known the world over as a true “singer’s singer”, Paynter is also one of Australia’s most successful songwriters and music producers. He has spent the last two decades collaborating with the giants of the industry, some of whose songs he will be celebrating on the Great Australian Songbook Tour 2026.
In 2022, he received the ARIA Award for Best Country Album with Casey Barnes’ LP “Light It Up”, which he co-wrote and produced, and is also a 2 x Golden Guitar winner and multiple nominee recipient. Having toured, produced and written with Australian music royalty, including John Farnham, Tina Arena, Delta Goodrem, Casey Barnes, James Johnston, Kaylee Bell, Taylor Moss and Icehouse, audiences can expect to hear personal tales about working alongside the greats, woven between stripped-back hits with his trademark soaring vocals.