Save the date—Theatre Under The Stars is getting ready for one of its most exciting nights of the year.
On Friday, November 6, TUTS will host its annual Lights Up Gala at The Post Oak Hotel, bringing together Houston’s arts lovers for an evening that blends unforgettable performances with meaningful impact. And this year’s headliner is a big one: Broadway and television star Megan Hilty.
Best known for her breakout role as Ivy Lynn on NBC’s Smash, Hilty has built an impressive career spanning Broadway, television, and beyond. Most recently, she starred in Death Becomes Her on Broadway, earning nominations for a Tony Award®, Grammy Award®, and Drama League Award.
Her Broadway journey began as Glinda in Wicked, followed by originating the role of Doralee Rhodes in 9 to 5: The Musical, and a Tony-nominated turn in Noises Off. Audiences may also recognize her from television appearances in Annie Live!, The Good Wife, The Good Fight, and Sean Saves the World, as well as her acclaimed portrayal of Patsy Cline in Patsy & Loretta.
“Megan Hilty brings both extraordinary vocal power and a deep emotional connection to every role she takes on,” said TUTS Artistic Director Dan Knechtges. “Her versatility and charisma make her the perfect headliner for this special evening.”
Beyond the star-studded performance, the evening will celebrate two dedicated champions of the arts—Demetra and Franklin D.R. Jones, Jr.—for their longstanding support of TUTS and the Houston arts community.
Guests can expect a full night of elegant dining, exciting live and silent auctions, and, of course, world-class entertainment. But at its heart, the Lights Up Gala is about something bigger: supporting the future of theatre in Houston.
Proceeds from the event help fund TUTS’ productions, education programs, and community initiatives—ensuring that the arts remain accessible to all. As Executive Director Hillary Hart puts it, “Every dollar raised helps us expand access to the arts and invest in the next generation of performers, audiences, and dreamers.”
