The Out in the Hills Festival has received glowing praise from actor and director Alan Cumming, who described the atmosphere of the inaugural event as extraordinary and deeply uplifting. The three-day celebration, held at Pitlochry Festival Theatre, brought together theatre, music, film, and conversation in a landmark moment for LGBTQIA+ visibility in Scotland.
Speaking after the festival, Cumming said the Out in the Hills Festival represented everything he hopes to achieve as an artist and as artistic director of the theatre. He highlighted the sense of inclusion, respect, and shared joy that filled the venue throughout the weekend, noting that the event made people feel supported and genuinely seen.
The Out in the Hills Festival featured an impressive line-up of guests and performances. Renowned actor Ian McKellen appeared in Equinox, a rehearsed reading of a one-man play, while broadcaster Graham Norton took part in a live interview hosted by Cumming. The programme also included contributions from crime writer Val McDermid, screenwriter Russell T Davies, and novelist Jackie Kay, creating a rich mix of voices from across literature, television, and theatre.
Beyond the stage, the Out in the Hills Festival created space for discussion and representation. A panel featuring Zander Murray, Scotland’s first openly gay professional footballer, sparked conversations about identity, visibility, and progress in sport. These moments helped position the festival as more than entertainment, but as a platform for connection and reflection.
Cumming emphasised that the success of the Out in the Hills Festival was not only measured by strong ticket sales, but by its emotional impact on audiences. He said the response clearly demonstrated the importance of inclusive cultural spaces and pointed to a hopeful direction for the future of the arts in Scotland.
As Pitlochry Festival Theatre continues to evolve under Cumming’s leadership, the Out in the Hills Festival has set a powerful precedent. Its debut has shown how arts festivals can celebrate diversity, foster belonging, and leave a lasting impression on both audiences and performers alike.
