As the Intervision Song Contest 2026 reluctantly prepares to take over the stage in Riyadh and the buzz for the participating countries has started, but what about the massive interval acts expected? Hosted under the umbrella of Saudi Vision 2030, the event is expected to be a high-tech masterclass.
While the official schedule is still being finalized, industry insiders and cultural ambassadors have pointed to four specific acts that represent the "four corners" of the Intervision spirit.
Đức Phúc
Tradition is the heartbeat of song contests, and 2026 will be no different. After his landslide victory in 2025, Vietnam’s Đức Phúc is widely expected to perform in the Grand Final. His performance is likely expected to feature a remix of his winning track plus a new single. His presence cements Vietnam’s status as a rising powerhouse in the global pop landscape. All that will not occur, though, if Duc Phuc decides to arrive in Saudi Arabia as a contestant again (as he has already stated). In that case, it is possible, in all fairness, not to be allowed to perform separately.
No artist embodies the modern Saudi music scene quite like Zeina Emad. Having already graced the Intervision stage in the inaugural year, her role in 2026 is expected to be much larger. Her inclusion is a point of pride for the host nation, showcasing the "New Saudi" to millions of viewers worldwide.
Representing the soul of Central Asia, The Nomad Trio is reportedly already in talks to provide an opening performance to the grand final. Known for their mastery of traditional instruments like the dombra and their hauntingly beautiful vocal harmonies, the trio provides the "Ethno-Folk" element that Intervision fans have come to love. Their performance in Riyadh would likely be a visual feast, utilizing nomadic imagery set against the backdrop of the Saudi desert.
From Russia, the inclusion of SHAMAN (Yaroslav Dronov) would bring a high-octane energy to the interval acts. Known for his powerful, soaring vocals and his ability to blend traditional Russian motifs with stadium-rock production, his performance would likely serve as the "bridge" between the contest's historical roots and its modern, competitive future. His stage presence is tailor-made for the grand scale of an arena like the one being prepared in Riyadh. SHAMAN will likely hit the stage to represent the organiser (Russia), but also because he asked not to be included in the 'voting' for 2025 as the host.
Fusion of Worlds
The 2026 interval acts are not just about individual songs; they are about collaboration. Producers have hinted at a final where all artists showcase unity.
In Riyadh, the message is clear: Intervision is not just a competition; it is a celebration of a multipolar world where every culture has a voice.
Written by Manios Themis
Intervision Song Contest specialist. Combines a Computer Science background with exhaustive knowledge of every edition (1965 Golden Clef, 1977–1980 Sopot era, 2025 revival, and Saudi Arabia 2026). Author and curator of the most complete independent Intervision archive online.
Full bio
0 Comments