The 2026 Calgary Stampede Grandstand Show, produced by Mark Eriksen, promises a high-energy spectacle blending music, dance, and daring specialty acts. For over 60 years, the show has capped off a day at the Stampede, following the chuckwagon races. This year, it aims to elicit cheers, applause, and gasps of wonderment.
The Young Canadians: Backbone of the Show
Since 1968, the Young Canadians have been a cornerstone of the Grandstand Show. What began as a novelty act is now the show's backbone, with 118 singers and dancers aged 7 to 21. They open with a production number called Rhythm is a Dancer, choreographed by Angela Benson, and have been rehearsing since April. Benjamin Toner costumes the entire company for each appearance.
The production number morphs into a second song, All We Need is a Star, before the first specialty act.
Duo Soma: Hair-Hanging Spectacle
Duo Soma from Argentina delivers what Eriksen calls an “absolutely jaw-dropping” act. Tobias Wolfgang holds a long pole while Vanessa Martinez climbs it, then attaches herself by her hair at the top and spins. “It will definitely have the audience gasping,” Eriksen said.
Gardiner Brothers and High Valley
Irish tap dancers Matthew and Michael Gardiner, known as the Gardiner Brothers, bring a huge social media following. They add a new level to Irish tap and are joined by all 118 Young Canadians, who learned a routine created for them. Following this high-energy number, headliner High Valley performs a set Eriksen describes as “a Super Bowl halftime show.” The Alberta country band is one of Canada’s most successful country acts and the top-selling Canadian band in country music history. After their set, they return for a drone extravaganza, singing Ghost Riders in the Sky and I Be U Be live as drones create patterns in the sky.
Bello Sisters and Sylla Brothers
High Valley is followed by the Bello Sisters from Italy, a balancing act that Eriksen promises will keep audiences on edge. “Their skill is amazing but also breathtaking.” Next, the Sylla Brothers from Africa perform the Wheel of Death, a daredevil act that pushes limits.
Fireworks Finale
The evening ends with the fireworks finale Can’t Stop the Feeling, featuring the Young Canadians and all special guests. Eriksen says the moment is so infectious, “it’s going to have the audience members singing and dancing as they leave the venue.”
