Alan Cumming: the Pied Piper Bringing Stars to Pitlochry

New Vision for Pitlochry Festival Theatre

Alan Cumming, the veteran actor and TV presenter from Scotland, has taken on the role of “Pied Piper,” promising to bring world-class performances to the quaint town of Pitlochry. Cumming’s vision is not just about attracting stars but also nurturing emerging talent through new initiatives.

A Reimagining of Tradition

One of Cumming’s significant changes involves abandoning the traditional repertory system, which had actors performing multiple plays over a long season. “When I came here,” he explains, “my goal was to bring in people and use this place as a nursery for great work that could travel elsewhere. This necessitated changing the system of working.” Cumming acknowledges that the old structure with its six-month commitment would not be financially viable today. However, this move has opened up new opportunities for actors and sets.

Celebrity Involvement

The festival, titled “Out in the Hills,” is set to welcome some big names like Sir Ian McKellen, Graham Norton, and Armistead Maupin. McKellen, known for his role as Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings, has already expressed interest in participating in a new one-man play. “I said, ‘Sure Ian, yes, what have you got?'” Cumming recalls, highlighting the openness with which big names are responding to his invitation.

Musical Performances and Beyond

The festival will feature multiple musicals, including the Scottish premiere of “Once,” a show based on the 2007 film about musicians recording an album. Additionally, there is a revival of “My Fair Lady” with Cumming himself taking on the role of Henry Higgins. He reflects on his earlier experience playing Colonel Pickering in the Carnoustie Musical Society and sees this as a continuation of his journey in theatre.

Legacy and Inspiration

Cumming’s inspiration comes from the founder of the Pitlochry Festival Theatre, John Stewart, who had visited the area during World War II and vowed to return after the war was over. “I’ve been thinking about that as I’ve made this season happen,” Cumming says. “He came here and he was mesmerized by Pitlochry, just like I am now, and he manifested an incredible thing.” This legacy has not only influenced Cumming’s approach but also his plans for the future of the theatre.

With a mix of new and traditional offerings, Cumming hopes to attract both new and existing audiences. “I want this theatre to be seen as an international destination for theatre-goers and artists,” he asserts. As he looks ahead, Cumming is already planning for 2027, with a clear roadmap in mind. For now, the first season will see audiences decide whether it’s worth making the journey to Scotland’s theatre in the hills.