Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026 Opening Ceremony: Venue announced and how you can be part of the show - 700 volunteers needed
One of Glasgow’s biggest entertainment venues will be hosting the show.
It’s going to be an incredible summer of sport, with Scotland’s football team heading to the World Cup in June.
Then, days after the World Cup final, Glasgow will host the Commonwealth Games over 10 action-packed days.
Last time the city held the event in 2014 it was a huge success - with many hailing it as the best Games ever.
Read more: Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026: Full 10 day schedule announced - here's what to watch and when
This year it’s been scaled back somewhat after Glasgow stepped in at the last minute when Victoria in Australia abandoned plans to host due to spiraling costs.
But there will still be an Opening Ceremony and, like in 2014 (remember the dancing Tunnocks Tea Cakes?), organisers are looking for volunteers to help make it a colourful triumph.
Here’s everthing you need to know.
When are the Glasgow Commonwealth Games?
The Games take place from July 23 to August 2. It will feature 10 days of sport in four venues, welcoming over 3,000 athletes from 74 nations and territories of the Commonwealth to compete in a programme of 10 sports and six Para sports.
When is the Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026 Opening Ceremony?
The Opening Ceremony will take place on Thursday, July 23.
Where is the Glasgow Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony taking place?
The Opening Ceremony will be staged in the OVO Hydro - the first time it has been held in an arena in Games history.
What will happen at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony?
Here’s how the organiser describe the Opening Ceremony:
“The Ceremony is a Clyde-built experience for the world, with the story of the city at its heart. It is being designed and delivered by renowned Glasgow-based creatives with Roxana Cole joining as show and staging director, whilst choreography will be overseen by Emily Jane Boyle and costume design by Carole Millar.”
How can I become a member of the cast for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony?
As was the case with the last Glasgow Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony in 2014, the cast of the Opening Ceremony will largely be made up of volunteers.
Roles range from symbolic community moments and welcoming the athletes, to high-energy dance numbers, scripted performances, storytelling and so much more.
Glasgow 2026 is looking to hear from:
- Dancers – all styles: classical, contemporary, jazz, urban/street dance, ballroom, social, traditional, and culturally specific.
- Theatre performers – drama students, amateur dramatic groups, musical theatre students or anyone with experience in theatre, film, or live performance.
- Musicians – singers, percussionists, drummers, or anyone with musical flair.
- All-round performers – not everyone needs a specific skill; some roles simply need enthusiasm, energy, and a passion for this once in a lifetime experience
Minimum volunteer age is 16 and no previous is experience required. Passionate people from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply to showcase the city’s local communities and cultures.
You can submit your application up to April 24 here. Auditions will take place in Glasgow on 9-10 May.
What have the organisers said about the Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony?
Louisa Mahon, Chief Marketing and Ceremonies Officer at Glasgow 2026, said: “From iconic directors and actors to global producers, choreographers and set designers, Glasgow and Scotland are bursting with creativity. We’re working with some incredible female creatives to build a ceremony that’s bold, unmistakably Glasgow and unlike anything the Commonwealth Games has produced before.
“The Hydro is a spectacular venue and this ceremony is being designed to be experienced, not observed - one that will translate to broadcast in a way that stadium ceremonies simply cannot match.
“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for volunteers to follow in the footsteps of some of the greatest global superstars who have performed in front of cheering crowds in the Hydro bowl. No matter your background, ability or experience – we want to hear from you, this is your moment!”
Dominic McKay, Chief Executive of the SEC, added: “The SEC is built for moments like the Commonwealth Games 2026 Opening Ceremony. We’re incredibly proud to play such a central role in the opening celebrations, not just as a venue, but as a passionate partner committed to delivering an extraordinary Games for Glasgow and the entire Commonwealth. We are ready to lift the curtain and raise the roof on an event which will inspire and capture the imagination of millions."
Make sure you don't miss a moment of breaking news from across Scotland by signing up to our free newsletter here.
Comments
Want to join the conversation? Please or to comment on this article.