The Hydro, one of the greatest live entertainment venues on the planet, is set to host the first arena-staged Opening Ceremony in Commonwealth Games history and Glasgow 2026 is calling for 700 enthusiastic, energetic volunteers to be part of something unforgettable.

Be Part of the Glasgow 2026 Opening Ceremony

On 23 July the Opening Ceremony will be the opening act for 11 days of world-class sporting celebration bringing the audience closer to the action in an immersive, electric and unmissable moment.

The Ceremony is being designed and delivered by renowned Glasgow-based creatives, led by Louisa Mahon, Glasgow 2026’s overall creative lead for Ceremonies. Roxana Cole joins as show and staging director, whilst choreography will be overseen by Emily-Jane Boyle and costume design by Carole Millar.

Glasgow 2026 will recruit volunteer cast members, representatives from cultural community groups and athlete volunteer marshals to step into the spotlight in a world-class venue and take part in live and pre-recorded moments of the show.

Roles range from welcoming the athletes, to high-energy dance numbers, scripted performances, storytelling and so much more.

Casting is now open and Glasgow 2026 is keen 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.

Louisa Mahon, Ceremonies Creative Lead and Chief Marketing 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!”

The deadline to apply is 24 April (subject to close if demand is high) and auditions will take place in Glasgow on 9-10 May.

Submit your application at glasgow2026.com/casting.

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