November 25th 2024.
In a recent interview, Elizabeth Newman, the outgoing artistic director of Pitlochry Festival Theatre, expressed her deep belief in the enduring importance of theatre for human beings. "Theatre has been with us since the beginning of time, when we first learned to communicate. It started around the campfire and has evolved since then," she said with passion. "I believe that we will always need to tell stories to make sense of the world, and it has been an honor to be a part of that at Pitlochry."
During her six years at the helm, Elizabeth has brought innovative productions and critical acclaim to Pitlochry. Her direction of Faith Healer in 2019 and A Streetcar Named Desire in 2023 earned her nominations for Best Director at the The Critics’ Awards for Theatre in Scotland. She also had other notable achievements, such as her own hit production of The Proclaimers' musical Sunshine on Leith, as well as Footloose and Beautiful: The Carole King Musical.
"While I am preparing to take on a new challenge as the artistic director at Sheffield Theatres, where I will be overseeing three theaters instead of one, my heart is still deeply connected to Pitlochry," Elizabeth shared. Currently, she is working on her final production at the theater, The Sound of Music. Reflecting on her time at Pitlochry, Elizabeth admitted that it is bittersweet to close this chapter of her life. "I have loved every moment of my time here," she said. "It is a place that feels very alive, and even though I am busy with my new role, it doesn't feel like my time here is coming to an end."
One of Elizabeth's greatest achievements during her tenure at the theater was creating the amphitheater, which became iconic during the pandemic lockdowns. It was one of the many innovations, including their online Soundstage project and outdoor shows on the lawn, that kept the theater afloat during uncertain times. Elizabeth reflected on this accomplishment, saying, "As things come to an end, it gives you a chance to look back on what you have achieved. It is a moment of joyful reflection and excitement for what is to come."
She also shared some of her favorite moments at the theater, such as the opening of The Wind in the Willows on the lawn after the pandemic, which she described as a magical experience with a live audience once again. "The first performance of Adventures with Painted People at the amphitheater was another one of those special moments," Elizabeth added. "And having Sally Reid return as Shirley Valentine was a real highlight. These are the moments that make you stop and think, 'Wow, look at what we have achieved.'"
As Elizabeth prepares to pass the reins to Scottish actor Alan Cummings, she is filled with mixed emotions. She will miss living in Scotland, especially her little cottage and BBQs by the river. "Pitlochry is heaven on earth, one of the most beautiful places you will ever see," she gushed. "But Scotland will always be a place we call home – my mom is even moving here!"
Despite her love for Scotland, Elizabeth is excited for the new challenge ahead of her. "Change is as good as a rest, and the only constant in life is change," she reflected. "This will be a new adventure, and I am looking forward to it." Her final production at the theater, The Sound of Music, will run until December 22, 2024.
To stay updated on the latest news and events, readers can subscribe to Scottish Field and read more stories like this one. As Elizabeth's time at Pitlochry Festival Theatre comes to an end, she encourages everyone to keep supporting the arts and live performances. "Theater will always be important to people, and I am grateful to have been a part of it here at Pitlochry," she concluded.
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