Alan Cummings is special guest at UHI’s Creative Industries Student Fringe in Alness
Students and staff at a Highland campus were treated to a visit from a very special guest this week.
Acclaimed Scottish actor, writer and presenter Alan Cumming visited the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) North, West and Hebrides campus in Alness on Monday as part of UHI’s Creative Industries Student Fringe.
Known worldwide for his acclaimed stage and screen performances, from ‘The Traitors US’ and ‘Schmigadoon!’ to ‘The Good Wife’, and the iconic ‘Cabaret’, Alan spent the morning watching student showcases and answering questions about his career and approach to storytelling.
He praised the students’ work, describing it as a privilege to see their creative character and direction.
Speaking about his own career journey and what attracts him to a script he said: “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.
“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 were 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.”
