Three North Lanarkshire musicians have been selected to perform at the opening ceremony of the Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026, bringing local talent to a global stage. The ceremony, scheduled for July 23 at the OVO Hydro, will launch 10 days of international sporting competition, featuring a creative showcase described as a "kaleidoscope and Clyde-built journey packed full of music, humour and Scottish surprise."
Local Talent on Global Stage
Airdrie singer Nathan Evans, known for his viral hit "Wellerman," and Wishaw brothers Alan and Stevie Jukes, who perform as the band Saint PHNX, will join the lineup. The trio recently collaborated on the World Cup anthem "Home" and will bring their anthemic sound and Tartan Army spirit to the ceremony. They will perform alongside established artists such as KT Tunstall, Callum Beattie, and Nina Nesbitt, as well as a cast of 600 volunteers from Glasgow, Scotland, and beyond.
Artists Express Excitement
Nathan Evans shared his enthusiasm on social media, posting on X: "Right... this is a bit mad. We're performing at the Opening Ceremony of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow on 23rd July!! Absolutely buzzing to be part of it. Massive thank you to @glasgow_2026 for having us! See you at the Hydro."
Ceremony Highlights Scottish Culture
Louisa Mahon, chief marketing and ceremonies officer at Glasgow 2026, emphasized the ceremony's role in showcasing Scottish culture. "Glasgow doesn’t do things in half measures - we sing louder, dance harder and are known for throwing our doors open wider than anywhere else," she said. "On July 23, we will share that spirit with 74 nations from across the Commonwealth in this beautifully curated ceremony. An opening ceremony is the extension of the host city’s culture and we’re proud to put the future of Scottish music and current homegrown stars on a bill alongside artists like KT Tunstall, who helped lay the foundations for emerging artists in Scotland."
A Night to Remember
Mahon added: "They won’t just be providing a soundtrack. The show is a love letter to Glasgow, to Scotland and to the Commonwealth nations we're about to welcome with open arms. This is going to be a night to remember. Don’t miss it, get your tickets today." Tickets for the opening ceremony are available at the Glasgow 2026 website.
