the mommy avenger

If you haven’t been to Hale Center Theater in Sandy, Utah, it’s time to fix that. This is a beloved community theater. Just ask anyone in Utah and they are happy to tell you all about it or share with you they have season tickets to the theater. The productions here are full-blown experiences—amazing sets, local talent, and that intimate, in-the-round stage that pulls you right into the story. It’s one of the gems of Utah entertainment, and they always know how to put on a show.

So naturally, when I saw they were doing Footloose—right after the 40th anniversary of the movie, no less—I had to be there.  Footloose is the movie that made dancing rebellious, Kevin Bacon iconic, and small-town angst look cool. This show is basically a rite of passage for anyone who lived through the 80s with a boom box on their shoulder. Hale brought it to life on stage with energy, heart, and just the right amount of 80s flair.

From the moment the music kicked in, it was clear: this cast was having the time of their lives. There’s something magical about seeing a movie you grew up with come alive in a new way, especially when it’s done with so much care and charisma. The production of Footloose was a full-on celebration of an era and you could tell the cast was eager to show it off to the audience.

Let’s just be real—some of these songs are forever burned into our Gen X souls. The music in this show hit all the right nostalgic notes. “Let’s Hear It for the Boy” had me grinning from ear to ear, and “Almost Paradise” was still just as dreamy as ever. When “Footloose” came on, I dare you not to sing along—it’s impossible. But the absolute standout was “Holding Out For a Hero.” That scene was everything: over-the-top, high-energy, packed with nods to 80s pop culture, and just the right amount of sass. Every Gen Xer in the room caught the references—some subtle, some not-so-subtle—and we were here for it. I absolutely loved this scene!

One of the things that makes seeing a show at Hale Center Theater so special is the theater itself. The stage is a technical marvel—sets can rise from below or drop in from above, transforming the space in seconds. It keeps the show moving seamlessly and adds an extra layer of wow to every scene. And because it’s a theater in the round, there’s no such thing as a bad seat. You’re fully immersed from every angle, with the action happening all around you. It creates an up-close, high-impact experience that makes every moment feel bigger, brighter, and more personal.

It’s more than just the music or the throwback outfits—it’s the way this production taps into all those teen feelings we thought we left behind. The awkwardness, the rebellion, the desire to be understood. And yes, the need to dance it out. This show reminds you why Footloose still matters—and why everyone needs to cut loose every now and then.

Hale’s new season is just around the corner but don’t wait to snag your tickets for Footloose. The show runs through August 30, 2025, and it’s the perfect end-of-summer outing for couples, girls’ night, teens, or even a solo night out for some well-earned mom-time.

Tickets are available now, and yes, they go fast—because word is out that this show is fun and Utahns love Hale Center Theater.

So if you’re craving some pure joy, high kicks, and a loud reminder that dancing is a right, not a privilege—get yourself to Hale and let your 80s soul shine. Let’s hear it for the cast. Let’s hear it for the memories. Let’s hear it for Footloose.

^{*we were invited to facilitate a feature, all opinions are our own*}