Alan Cumming, a New Yorker for over two decades, finds his heart increasingly drawn to Scotland. It’s a connection deepened by a growing unease with the current climate in the United States, a feeling of vulnerability he hadn’t fully anticipated.
During a recent phone conversation, the actor described a chilling reality: ICE raids occurring less than a mile from his location in Chinatown. These weren’t distant events, but a palpable threat impacting the lives of people around him. The atmosphere, he explained, is thick with fear – fear of speaking out, fear of losing livelihoods, and the ever-present dread of deportation.
Cumming’s Scottish “bolthole” represents more than just a retreat; it’s a sanctuary. He became a US citizen in 2008, yet the escalating enforcement of aggressive immigration policies, reminiscent of strategies implemented during a previous administration, has underscored the value of having another home, another life to return to.
Beyond personal refuge, Cumming is actively cultivating a space for celebration and resilience. He’s spearheading “Out in the Hills,” an LGBTQ+ theatre festival in Pitlochry, Scotland, this January. The event promises a “weekend of queer joy” and has already attracted luminaries like Sir Ian McKellen and Graham Norton.
Securing such prominent names wasn’t a challenge, Cumming explained. These are friends, allies who recognize the importance of the festival, particularly at a time when queer and trans individuals face increasing hostility. It’s a deliberate act of defiance and a powerful statement of support.
The festival isn’t simply a gathering of stars; it’s a platform for artistic expression. Cumming is particularly excited about his role in “Me and the Girls,” a new stage play adapted from a Noel Coward short story. He playfully deflected questions about the event’s most anticipated moment, declaring his affection for every aspect of the program.
The inspiration for “Out in the Hills” stemmed from a desire to fill a void in the Scottish cultural calendar and to highlight the profound contributions of the LGBTQ+ community. He envisioned a vibrant event during the quiet winter months, a reminder of the richness and resilience of queer culture.
Cumming’s schedule is demanding, balancing his role as host of the US version of “The Traitors” with his artistic endeavors. He confessed to a strange sensation watching the UK’s “Celebrity Traitors,” feeling as though someone was in his house, observing a familiar game unfolding with a different cast.
He found the dynamic particularly compelling, noting that the pre-existing relationships among the UK contestants added a unique layer of psychological complexity to the game. He even knew the outcome – Alan Carr’s victory as a traitor – having filmed the US version shortly after the UK finale.
Looking ahead, Cumming intends to continue pursuing his passions, but with a renewed emphasis on balance. His New Year’s resolution is simple: more rest between projects. And, perhaps unexpectedly, he’s determined to learn how to play the bagpipes, a fitting tribute to his deepening connection with Scotland.
