Hydro to be first arena to host Commonwealth Games opening ceremony

The OVO Hydro has announced it will be the first arena to host the Commonwealth Games opening ceremony.

The ceremony on July 23 will be the first of its kind to be staged in an arena rather than an outdoor stadium.

Around 700 dancers, theatre performers, musicians and “all-round performers” are being invited to apply to be involved in the event.

Glasgow 2026 is recruiting volunteer cast members, representatives from cultural community groups and athlete volunteer marshals to take part in live and pre-recorded moments of the show.

Louisa Mahon, Glasgow 2026’s ceremonies creative lead, said the “Clyde-built” ceremony is “designed to be experienced, not observed”.

She 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!”

Glasgow will host the event for the second time in 12 years, with over 3,000 of the world’s top athletes from 74 nations and territories set to descend on the city next summer.

The 23rd edition of the Games will begin on July 23 and run until August 2, with 133 sessions of sport, including more than 50 medal sessions.

Over 200 gold medals will be up for grabs across 10 sports and six Para sports.

Dominic McKay, chief executive of the SEC, said: “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.”