Some stories aren't meant for a screen but are meant to be experienced live. Under stage lights and handcrafted sets, brought to life by diverse actors, a packed audience gathers to experience artistry at its finest. In an age of streaming and scrolling, there is a special thrill of sitting in a darkened theater, not knowing exactly what will happen next. Our Beehive state is no stranger to artist culture. From Sundance to the Utah Symphony, the Hale Centre Theatre (HCT) is one of many organizations that have helped creatives develop their craft for over 40 years. It all began with Nathan and Ruth Hale.
“Early on in their marriage, Mark’s [Dietlein] grandparents were writing and producing plays in Utah,” says Sally Dietlein, Hale Centre Theatre's artistic director and co-founder.
Hale Centre Theatre is a 501(C)3) nonprofit organization founded in 1985. Alongside her husband, Mark and his grandparents, Ruth and Nathan Hale, the family turned an old South Salt Lake factory into a 220-seat immersive theater in those early days.
“We opened the theater in Sandy in the fall of 2017, and it's been remarkable to see the growth that has happened," Sally said.
Sally has written, directed, and choreographed seven musical performances, all produced by HCT. Under her joint leadership, numerous honors, including the Utah Pioneer of Progress award and a prestigious Utah Business award, have been given. Currently, Hale Centre Theatre is composed of two, (soon to be three) center stages.
Hale Centre Theatre currently has three resident directors, a resident choreographer, and a resident musical director. “The building of these shows, whether set design or costumes, are so technical, we start ten months ahead of production," Sally explained.
With over 500 actors auditioning and starring in productions each year, the theatre's performances showcase a remarkable range of talent. To help kick off the holiday season, Hale Centre Theatre is celebrating its 40th annual production of a “Christmas Carol".
With performances starting in November, it has become a cherished tradition for families across the Wasatch Front. This timeless story reminds us that generosity isn't about wealth but about warmth. Hale Centre Theatre's performance of a “Christmas Carol” endures because it speaks to truths about morality, compassion, and the community's capacity for growth every year.
“Every year we get to spread the message of being kinder to each other.”