Pitlochry Festival Theatre will launch Out in the Hills, a brand-new LGBTQIA+ festival, running from 16–18 January 2026.
The three-day celebration will feature theatre, music, film, dance, workshops, and conversations, bringing together some of the UK’s most beloved cultural figures.
Among the headline events is Equinox, a rehearsed reading of a new one-man play by Laurie Slade, starring legendary actor Ian McKellen and directed by Sean Mathias.
Alan Cumming, Artistic Director of Pitlochry Festival Theatre, will lead a cast of six in Me and the Girls, a new stage adaptation by Neil Bartlett of Noël Coward’s 1964 short story.
Audiences can also experience Slum Boy, a powerful memoir reading by Juano Diaz, accompanied by world-renowned percussionist Evelyn Glennie, blending spoken word with immersive sound and visuals.
The festival will host a series of ‘in conversation’ events featuring literary icons Armistead Maupin and Jackie Kay, as well as broadcaster Graham Norton in conversation with Alan Cumming.
Other highlights include stand-up comedy, a queer ceilidh on Friday night, and a DJ set from Junglehussi on Saturday evening.
Alan Cumming said:
“Out in the Hills is my first piece of new programming in 2026 as Artistic Director of Pitlochry Festival Theatre and I think it perfectly demonstrates the ethos I want to infuse all my work with here. We have a combination of big names as well as new faces and ideas, and I’m inviting the public to take a chance on new experiences as well as revel in those they already love.
Also, I love a party! Out in the Hills is a celebration of the amazing contributions the LGBTQIA+ community has made to all our lives. And, at a time in our history when the queer and trans community is once more under threat, this is a chance for everyone to come along and show solidarity and support and be part of a weekend of queer joy!”
Festival Programmer Lewis Hetherington added:
“Putting together the programme for Out in the Hills has been an absolute joy. I’ve loved working with Alan and the rest of the Pitlochry team to piece together this line up of inspiring, thought provoking and beautiful events.
It feels more important than ever for us to celebrate difference, to find harmony together in all the various songs we sing. I’m so proud that this festival offers something for everyone. Come with an open heart and mind and you’ll leave with a richer understanding of the world around you and a deeper sense of empathy for your fellow humans. It’s going to be mind expanding, moving, and fun!”
Graham Norton said:
“When I left drama school almost forty years ago, the very first job that I didn’t get was at Pitlochry Festival Theatre. I went on to not get jobs at many other theatres, but Pitlochry holds a special place in my heart. I am delighted to finally be making my debut and in such stellar company.”
Out in the Hills is supported by PITLOCHRYhotels.com and aims to bring light, colour, and connection to the Highlands in the darkest month of the year.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
