Spotlight on the Stars: Meet the 2025 Summer Games Opening Ceremony Performers

Join us for an unforgettable evening at the 2025 Special Olympics Virginia Summer Games Opening Ceremony, taking place Friday, June 6 at 7 pm at the University of Richmond's Robins Stadium. From powerful vocals to heartfelt storytelling, this year’s musical lineup is packed with rising stars who embody the spirit of resilience, inclusion and joy.

🎟️ Want to learn more about the Summer Games? Visit specialolympicsva.org/summer-games.
🙌 Fans also are invited to Volunteer 2 Cheer from 6:45 to 9 pm that evening!

We’re thrilled to welcome a group of talented artists — all who recently shined on American Idol — to the stage for an electrifying Opening Ceremony.

The Performers

Nina Daig

Clara Rae

Trenton Wright

Anna McElroy

Pat Johnson

Grayson Torrence

Samantha Ray

Mary Aline

A singer-songwriter from Beaverdam, Virginia, Nina Daig captured national attention with her original song “Average Joe,” a moving tribute to her older brother Joey, who has an intellectual disability. Her debut public performance earned her a golden ticket to Hollywood on American Idol and praise from all three judges.

“My brother accepts himself fully,” Nina says. “I’m still learning from him every day.” She brings that same authenticity and heart to Robins Stadium, where she’ll honor the spirit of the Games through her music.

Clara Rae is a Nashville recording artist with an impressive string of accolades, including 2024 Female Performer of the Year from the NELA Music Awards. Born and raised in Northeast Louisiana, she’s taken the stage in iconic venues from the Bluebird Café in Nashville to the Piccadilly Circus in London to American Idol Season 23.

Her style blends bluesy country, classic rock and Americana, and her performances brim with raw energy and storytelling. Clara brings over 600 shows’ worth of experience to the Summer Games stage.

A flight test engineer from Helena, Montana, Trenton Wright charmed American Idol Season 23 audiences with his soulful take on Hall & Oates’ “Rich Girl.” A self-taught musician, Trenton started recording music in his dorm room while studying engineering.

Now, he's using his voice to celebrate inclusion and passion at Summer Games, showing that great things happen when you follow your heart.

With rich Southern vocals and a deep emotional range, Anna McElroy brings the sound of Alabama to Richmond. She began performing at four and later opened for country legends like Lee Ann Womack, Sara Evans and Joe Diffie.

Now based in Nashville, Anna earned her golden ticket on American Idol this spring with a performance full of soul and storytelling. She’s honored to be part of an event that champions joy and resilience.

Pat Johnson is a 26-year-old singer-songwriter from New Jersey and front man of the alternative rock band FLORACENE. He made a splash on American Idol Season 23 with his raw vocals and passionate songwriting.

Pat also works full-time as a case worker for the disabled population, a role that deeply influences his music. His appearance at Summer Games is a personal milestone, as he shares the stories of those he serves through song.

At just 21, Grayson Torrence has already made waves with her powerhouse voice and heartfelt performances, earning a spot in the American Idol Top 24 this spring. A pop singer/songwriter from a military family, Grayson captivates audiences with her authenticity and grace.

She has performed across Virginia and is known for her ability to emotionally connect with her audience. Through music, she proves that dreams can flourish no matter where you come from.

Samantha Ray is rooted in country and driven by emotion, with a voice full of warmth, grit and heart. She earned a Golden Ticket to Hollywood on American Idol this spring, capturing national attention with her classic-meets-modern sound.

Drawing inspiration from real life and deep feeling, Samantha’s songs speak to love, longing and the strength it takes to keep going. Her music connects across generations, honoring tradition while carving out her own path — one lyric at a time.

Soulful and spellbinding, Mary Aline brings a haunting vulnerability to every performance. A storyteller at heart, she earned a Golden Ticket to Hollywood on American Idol this season with her blend of moody Americana and gritty honesty.

With a voice that echoes the cinematic tone of Lana Del Rey and the raw edge of Tanya Tucker, Mary sings about lost girls, family bonds and outsider dreams. Her originals and stripped-down covers alike have a way of staying with listeners long after the final note. Whether on stage or in the studio, Mary Aline proves that the most powerful music comes from telling the truth.

Alongside these incredible performers, the Opening Ceremony will feature:

• The lighting of the Olympic Cauldron by members of the Virginia Law Enforcement Torch Run
• Inspiring athlete speakers
• Recognition of our 2024 Special Olympics Virginia award winners
• A post-show concert by University of Richmond faculty band Sabbatical
• And a dazzling fireworks finale

Don’t miss this unforgettable kickoff to a weekend of unity, courage, and celebration.

📅 Friday | 7 PM | Robins Stadium
🌐 Details at: specialolympicsva.org/summer-games
🎉 Sign up to Volunteer 2 Cheer: Click here to register!