Pitlochry theatre chief moves on as box office income spikes

The man credited with overseeing success pursues new venture

The man credited with overseeing Pitlochry Festival Theatre’s best box office results for 74 years is to step down after nearly a decade.

Chief Executive Kris Bryce, who guided the theatre through the ‘defining’ pandemic and delivered new theatre spaces and improved public areas, will leave in January to concentrate on his consultancy business, Galanthus Group.

His tenure has coincided, this year, with the best audience figures and box office income since the theatre’s establishment, as reported on PBN, here.

Now, in its 75th year and in the midst of the maiden season with Alan Cumming as Artistic Director, the ‘theatre in the hills’ is now recruiting for a new Chief Exec.

Privilege

Dougie Cameron, Director of Finance and Operations, will assume the role of Interim Chief Executive until a new appointment is made.

“It has been an extraordinary privilege to serve Pitlochry Festival Theatre for nearly a decade,” said the outgoing Bryce, who spearheaded the Theatre’s successful application to the £300m Tay City Deal.

“I’ve been fortunate to work with three brilliant Artistic Directors in that time — John Durnin, Elizabeth Newman and Alan Cumming — each shaping the work on our stages and the stories we tell in important and meaningful ways.

“My lasting memory of Pitlochry Festival Theatre will always be the people. Anything is possible when individuals collaborate enthusiastically and respectfully, and the team at Pitlochry demonstrate that truth daily in what they achieve together. I leave with real warmth and in full confidence that the Theatre’s best years are just beginning.”

Alan Cumming, himself, thanked Bryce for his own position at the theatre.

“Kris Bryce has been a major figure in the history and success of Pitlochry Festival Theatre. I will be eternally grateful to him for bringing me into the fold and showing me the ropes when I took up post. I wish him all the best. Haste ye back, Kris!”

The news comes as public bookings open for Alan Cumming’s first programme of shows. Booking can be made by visiting pitlochryfestivaltheatre.com

To read more about the new programme, click here