Out in the Hills
Brighten up your January with three days of theatre, music, film, dancing and so much more, at Out in the Hills, a brand-new festival that celebrates all things LGBTQIA+, and invites everyone to find new ways to look at the world and each other.
From 16-18 January 2026 this exciting new festival is set to give audiences the opportunity to enjoy everything from the first look at brand new plays featuring theatrical icons, to beautiful exhibitions of photography, as well as events discussing everything from football, to crime writing, to baking. Performances at the Festival will include Ian McKellen, Graham Norton, Val McDermid, Jackie Kay, Mhairi Black, The Hebridean Baker and Alan Cumming.
Out in the Hills, curated by Lewis Hetherington
From Heather to Himalayas: Walking in the footsteps of Scotland's plant hunters
Caroline Bavey in conversation with Alan Cumming
Poetry Reading with Stewart Sanderson and Taylor Strickland
Become part of the magic!
Get priority booking on your favourite seats, discounts on must-see shows, and be the first to know of events and news from the Theatre, from just £40 a year.
Make the most of your weekend
Festival Pass
Make it a whole weekend for less with our Festival Pass giving you discounts on 2 or more Out in the Hills events (excluding headliner events)
Ticket info
Find out more information about booking tickets, as well as group bookings and early bird discounts!
Plan your visit
Take a look around to find directions, information about our venue and tips on how to make the most of your time at Out in the Hills.
FAQS
Why is the theatre hosting an LGBTQIA+ festival for everyone?
Pitlochry Festival Theatre believes that the arts are for everyone — a space where all stories, identities, and voices can be celebrated. The Out in the Hills Festival is an opportunity to highlight the creativity, resilience, and diversity of queer artists, while inviting all audiences to take part.
By saying the festival is “for everyone,” we mean that queer stories are human stories — filled with love, courage, humour, and imagination that resonate far beyond labels. We welcome everyone, whether you identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community or as an ally, to share in the experience, learn from one another, and enjoy powerful performances that reflect the richness of our collective humanity.
Why are you using the word queer?
We use the word queer intentionally and with care. We recognise that while the word has been reclaimed by many in the LGBTQIA+ community, it has a complicated history and can still be uncomfortable or complex for some. We hope to contribute to its positive reclamation — celebrating “queer” as a word of inclusion, pride and diversity.
Does the Theatre stand in solidarity with trans people?
Trans rights are human rights. We champion dignity, respect, and inclusion for all people. We’re committed to using our platform to celebrate trans artists, support trans audiences, and create spaces where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and safe.
We believe theatre is for everyone — where every story, identity, and voice matters.
We stand in solidarity with trans people everywhere. Pitlochry Festival Theatre has always been a place of transformation, imagination, and truth — and those principles guide us as we affirm that trans people belong fully and joyfully in our community, on and off the stage.
Art can change hearts. Community can change the world. Together, we stand with our trans friends, colleagues, and collaborators — now and always.
What facilities do you have?
There are a number of public toilets at the Theatre, please use the toilet space that feels right for you.
Ground floor (level access)
- All Gender, Accessible and Baby Change – 2 toilets
Downstairs
- Female – 12 cubicles with floor to ceiling walls & doors
- Male – 2 cubicles with floor to ceiling walls and doors and 11 urinals
If you don’t feel any of these facilities are right for you, please speak to a member of staff.