Alan Cumming attends launch of Ardross Community Cinema

Last week, BAFTA-winning actor and celebrated presenter Alan Cumming attended the opening of a new community cinema in Ardross.

​​Cumming joined a packed audience for a special screening of My Old School, the 2022 documentary-comedy in which he stars. The event, hosted at Ardross Community Hall, marked a significant milestone for the village’s cultural life, bringing residents together to celebrate the power of film in fostering local connections. 

The 150-strong audience was treated to a Q&A – moderated by community member Sylvia Tarrant – in which Alan discussed his experience of making the film. He also shared his delight at being back in Scotland as presenter of The Traitors US. Cumming is currently filming Season 3 of the TV show at Ardross Castle, a short drive from the Community Hall.The event was the first of Ardross Community Cinema’s Winter programme, which will bring family, independent and Scottish films to the community’s doorstep once a month. The idea for the cinema came from a group of Ardross residents who wanted to use the magic of film to bring the local community together. It is hoped that the development of a cinema will become a cultural hub for the Ardross community.

We know how important it is to bring our community together, and films are the perfect way to do this. It’s been so special to be a part of this team and to welcome Alan to our launch event. The audience loved hearing his funny, captivating stories about filming in the local area. We can’t wait to do it again soon!

Petria Brooke-Carr, Ardross Community Cinema Volunteer

Ardross is part of a growing network of Highland communities using local spaces – like town halls, libraries and community centres – to host brilliant film events. They are supported by Spotlight, a partnership between Eden Court and Film Hub Scotland, that works to develop film audiences in the Highlands and Moray.

The project, launched in August 2023, is currently working with groups including Cinema Nairn, Film Forres and Evanton Community Trust. It provides hands-on support with tech, programming and marketing to help these groups to bring the magic of film to their local areas.

Ardross is one of the volunteer-run community groups who use their spare time to put on local film events for their friends and neighbours. We know the positive impact these cinemas can have as they combat isolation and increase community cohesion. To have a Scottish superstar like Alan at the first ever event in Ardross was truly the icing on the cake!

Gražina Ščučkaitė, Spotlight Project Coordinator

For a list of Spotlight screenings taking place in community venues across the Highlands, visit: cinemainthehighlands.co.uk.