High in the heart of Perthshire, a wartime dream is reaching a historic milestone. Pitlochry Festival Theatre has officially unveiled a vibrant programme for its 75th Anniversary celebration weekend, taking place from Saturday 9 to Sunday 10 May 2026. The event marks seven decades of world-class performance, tracing the journey from a vision scribbled on paper during WWII to Scotland's celebrated "Theatre in the Hills."
The festivities offer a blend of community spirit and exclusive access. On Saturday, Head of Production Dan Franklin leads Backstage Tours, offering a rare glimpse into the craft of building productions from scratch. Simultaneously, the Community Stages: 75 Year Dream project will see 75 locals collaborating with professional theatre-makers to create an original performance directed by Ben Occhipinti, honoring the "spirit of manifestation" that founded the theatre.
On Sunday evening, the focus shifts to the theatre's storied past and bright future. Honorary President Colin Liddell launches his new book, Scotland’s Theatre in the Hills, joined in conversation by journalist Magnus Linklater and the Theatre’s new Artistic Director, Alan Cumming. Throughout the weekend, visitors can also explore the SEWN Exhibition, showcasing iconic costumes from the theatre's vast archives.
This anniversary is about more than just looking back. The weekend kicks off a £500,000 Anniversary Appeal aimed at supporting bold new writing, nurturing fresh talent, and expanding engagement with young people and schools.
"Pitlochry Festival Theatre is a theatre like no other, in a place like no other," the organization shared. Under the new leadership of Alan Cumming, whose first season coincides with this landmark year, the theatre remains committed to its mission of sharing Highland Perthshire with the world.
As the community prepares for the main event in May—and a series of 1950s-themed picnics following in August—the message is clear: the dream John Stewart hid by the River Tummel 75 years ago is more alive than ever.
For tickets and participant registration, visit pitlochryfestivaltheatre.com.
