Scottish legend Alan Cumming celebrates creative talent at UHI

On Monday 23 June, students and staff at the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) were treated to an unforgettable morning as one of Scotland’s most loved performers, internationally acclaimed Scottish actor, writer and presenter Alan Cumming, visited the UHI North, West and Hebrides Alness campus.

His visit was part of UHI’s Creative Industries Student Fringe, an annual showcase that celebrates the creativity, innovation and talent of students from across the region. This year’s event featured an impressive variety of work, including film, poetry, short stories, live music and immersive theatre.

Alan – known worldwide for his acclaimed stage and screen performances, from ‘The Traitors US’ and ‘Schmigadoon!’ to ‘The Good Wife’, and the iconic ‘Cabaret’ – spent the morning watching student showcases and answering questions about his career and approach to storytelling.

Alan praised the students’ work, describing it as a privilege to see their creative character and direction. He spoke openly about his own career journey, what attracts him to a script, and the importance of authentic storytelling:

“I don’t really look for a role. I respond to the whole thing, the story, the people, the message. If it connects with who I am, that’s what makes me want to do it.”

Encouraging students to trust themselves and learn from every experience, he added:

“Regrets take up too much space. Anything that hasn’t gone right, I’ve used to make my life or my work better. Stay present. Don’t let yearning pull you away from what’s right in front of you.”

And he reminded everyone what truly makes an artist and why it’s vital to stay true to yourself:

“Being yourself is the most interesting thing about you – your story, your difference, your soul. The best artists are the ones who let you see that. You must be willing to be vulnerable and not afraid to fly your freak flag.”

Students left inspired and energised by his visit. Emily Netherton, a BA (Hons) Drama and Production student at UHI Inverness, said:

“I had an absolutely lovely time meeting Alan, and all the information he shared about the industry was really insightful.”

John Moar, also studying BA (Hons) Drama and Production at UHI Inverness, added:

“This was a great day and a great opportunity. It was really fun to perform and see others perform, and it was great to get a bit of insight from Alan about the industry and his work. Thank you.”

Anna McPherson, Programme Leader BA (Hons) Contemporary Film Making in the Highlands and Islands, said:

“It was an absolute honour to welcome Alan Cumming and to shine a spotlight on our UHI North, West and Hebrides' creative industries campus in Alness. It's been wonderful to showcase the variety and diversity of student work. Alan is such an icon on screen and stage and his passion for the arts, warmth, honesty and encouragement have inspired our students, something they will carry with them for a long time.”