With Bluffdale’s reputation as a rural community, outsiders might think that it is an area devoid of any cultural activities that don’t include the word “rodeo.” That opinion could not be farther from the truth, as evidenced by the myriad of talented performances at the first Footlights Talent and Variety Night on Jan. 24 at South Hills Middle School. Hundreds of residents, friends and family members filled the auditorium.

Eighteen acts ran the gamut from singing, dancing and gymnastics to original compositions performed by the composers.

“I have been keeping my eyes peeled and my ears open for years in search of talent for Bluffdale Old West Days, and have put on many talent shows in the past.  But it has never been quite satisfactory—until now,” talent show organizer Diane Kelley said.

A crowd favorite was definitely the performance of “Chariots of Fire” by Jolley’s Gym. A large group of second and third-grade students moved the audience to audible awes with gymnastic feats, including handsprings so fast that the girls, in their red uniforms, looked like fireballs.

One act that represented Bluffdale’s historical roots in their country-song choice and outfits was the performance of 13-year-old Jacie Childs and 12-year-old Cambria Jorgensen. Dressed in matching denim and wearing boots, the girls sang “Our Song” by Taylor Swift.

Footlights was sponsored by the Bluffdale Arts Advisory Board. The council has been responsible for bringing the arts to Bluffdale since 1990 and has put on over 35 productions. Auditions for the fall classical music event “Open Season on the Classics” will be held the last weekend in July.