‘Rising Tides’: Equality Utah’s Allies Gala with Tig Notaro at Eccles Theater
One of Utah’s most anticipated nights of celebration, fashion, and advocacy returns this fall as Equality Utah hosts its annual Allies Gala on Saturday, Oct. 11, at the Eccles Theater.
The event, often dubbed “Utah’s Met Gala,” blends entertainment with a powerful message of inclusion. This year’s theme, Rising Tides, invites attendees to embrace an “Ocean Odyssey” dress code — anything from shimmering mermaid couture to classic evening wear in shades of blue. Equality Utah says the theme symbolizes unity in turbulent times.
“We are bold explorers on a stormy sea, facing fierce currents and towering waves, but together, we’re ferocious — lifting each other toward calmer waters and brighter horizons,” the organization said in announcing the event.
The gala will be headlined by comedian Tig Notaro, whose sharp, understated humor has made her a favorite on stage and screen. Notaro has been nominated for Emmy, Grammy, Writers Guild of America, and Screen Actors Guild awards, and was named one of Rolling Stone’s 50 Best Stand-Up Comics of All Time. Her credits include HBO’s Boyish Girl Interrupted, Netflix’s Happy to Be Here, and the Prime Video special Hello Again. She has also appeared in Star Trek: Discovery and Zack Snyder’s Army of the Dead.
Hosting the evening will be Eli McCann, Salt Lake Tribune humor columnist and Equality Utah board member. McCann described the event as a place where community connections flourish: “We want Latter-day Saints and drag queens getting to know each other and becoming friends.”
The Allies Gala serves a dual purpose — it’s both a night of glamour and a key fundraiser for Equality Utah, the state’s largest LGBTQ advocacy organization. Proceeds support the group’s lobbying efforts at the Utah State Capitol, leadership development programs, and initiatives designed to build inclusive spaces statewide.
“Every ticket fuels Equality Utah’s work at the Capitol, trains future leaders, and builds spaces of belonging across our state,” said Troy Williams, the organization’s executive director.
Over the years, the Allies Gala has attracted national entertainers and high-profile Utahns alike. Past headliners have included Broadway stars, musicians, and comedians, with previous themes ranging from vintage Hollywood to futuristic fantasy. But organizers say the heart of the event remains unchanged: celebrating allies who advance equality while raising the funds that keep that mission moving forward.
Tickets for the 2025 gala start at $69 and are available at equalityutah.org. The evening begins with a reception at 6:30 p.m., followed by the program at 8 p.m. The event is open to mature audiences only.
