By Wale Joseph
Organisers of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games have confirmed that the Opening Ceremony will take place at the renowned OVO Hydro, alongside a call for 700 volunteers to help bring the event to life.
Set for July 23, the ceremony will mark a historic first for the Games, as it will be held in an indoor arena rather than a traditional stadium. The move is aimed at creating a more immersive and electrifying experience, with spectators positioned closer to the action during the curtain-raiser to 11 days of elite sporting competition.
The production will spotlight Glasgow’s culture and creativity, with a strong local influence at its core. The creative team includes show director Roxana Cole, choreographer Emily Jane Boyle, and costume designer Carole Millar, working under the guidance of Ceremonies Chief Louisa Mahon.
As part of the build-up, organisers are encouraging people from all walks of life to apply as volunteer performers. Opportunities are open to dancers, actors, musicians, and individuals without formal experience but with the enthusiasm to participate in a global event. Volunteers will feature in both live and pre-recorded segments, including athlete welcomes, dance routines, and storytelling performances.
The OVO Hydro, located within the Scottish Event Campus, is among the key venues for the Games and will also host the netball competition featuring 12 leading teams from across the Commonwealth
Speaking on the plans, Louisa Mahon emphasized the ambition to deliver a ceremony that reflects Glasgow’s identity while offering a unique viewing experience for both in-person audiences and global broadcasts.
Scottish Event Campus Chief Executive Dominic McKay added that the venue is ready to play a central role in launching the Games, promising an opening celebration designed to inspire and captivate a worldwide audience.
The Games will run from July 23 to August 2, with more than 3,000 athletes from 74 nations and territories competing across 10 sports and six para-sports.
