Sir Ian McKellen, at 86, demonstrates remarkable lung capacity as he inflates and releases a red balloon on stage, embodying the spirit of an elderly gay man named Ed seeking liberation. This weekend, the Pitlochry Festival Theatre in Scotland launched its inaugural LGBTQ+ festival, Out in the Hills, with a vibrant atmosphere. New artistic director Alan Cumming curated a diverse program, including talks, performances, and workshops, transforming the once-sedate venue into a buzzing social hub. The festival's energy was palpable, with attendees high from the previous night's Queer As Folk! ceilidh, led by the Malin Lewis Trio. The festival's diverse offerings attracted a wide range of visitors, from those attending Coinneach MacLeod's baking demonstrations to those eager for thought-provoking conversations like the one between trans playwright Jo Clifford and her daughter Catriona Innes. The festival's highlight was a rehearsed reading of Laurie Slade's 'Equinox', a monologue exploring Ed's complex relationships and his struggle with abandonment and dominance. McKellen's powerful performance, directed by Sean Mathias, left a lasting impression, with his portrayal of an irascible man grappling with life's bitter end. The festival's lighthearted moments included a lively conversation between Cumming and Graham Norton, who discussed homophobia, representation, and rights with humor and wit. Norton's enthusiasm for the festival's 'big gay thing in the middle of Scotland' was infectious, and his zebra-striped fleece added a touch of whimsy. The event concluded with a strong condemnation of conversion therapy and a mix of jokes and genuine affection for celebrity guests, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended.
