Valentine’s Day is looming and it’s fallen to you to organise a date.
If a fancy restaurant isn't your thing, or a candelit dinner seems a little too low-key, perhaps you’d rather something with a bit more drama. We've picked some theatre shows to suit the Valentine’s vibes, from dewy-eyed romance to sultry enchantment.
Play scripts are home to the most romantic turns of phrase, so take some inspiration for sweet nothings to whisper during the interval. In the words of Wilbur from Hairspray: "You’re like a stinky old cheese, babe, just getting riper with age."
Tango Fire
Take a history lesson on the evolution of Tango. Two world champions of the art take to the Peacock Theatre stage to dance a journey through Buenos Aires, where Argentine Tango has its heart. A night of sex, seduction and raw sophistication.
Until February 16, Peacock Theatre, peacocktheatre.com
The Lion King
Set on the backdrop of ingenious costumes, gorgeous sets and soaring tunes, the Lion King is a tale of triumph against adversity with a love story at its heart. The musical contains one of theatre’s cheesiest and most recognisable songs, Can You Feel The Love Tonight, courtesy of Elton John, and will no doubt leave you with that warm and fuzzy feeling.
Lyceum Theatre
Buy tickets for The Lion King with GO London
Only Fools and Horses: the Musical
It may not seem like the most romantic of plays, but this musical is based around the Dates episode of Only Fools and Horses. Rodney is planning his wedding to Cassandra and Del Boy meets his future love Raquel for the first time, complete with 20 original songs and more than a hint of nostalgia.
Booking until August, Theatre Royal Haymarket
Buy tickets for Only Fools and Horses with GO London
Magic Mike Live
This will leave you hot under the collar. Channing Tatum’s show now has its home at the Hippodrome Casino with dance, acrobatics, aerials and stripping in a fully immersive setting. Co-directed by the man himself, Magic Mike is based on the film of the same name and follows the same formula: lots of shirtless men. It may not be filled with sentimentality, but it certainly gets very intimate.
Booking until October, Hippodrome Casino, Leicester Square, magicmikelondon.co.uk
No Kids
Real-life couple Nir and George have decided that the best place to talk about having kids is in front of an audience. With a Madonna soundtrack behind it, this is a vibrant and touching story about same-sex parenting – if, when and how to do it.
Until February 23, Battersea Arts Centre, bac.org.uk
Wicked
A story with friendship against the odds and a couple that brings out the best in each other – that’s what we need on Valentine’s Day. To top it off, you’ve got some huge power ballads. If you’ve missed out on one of London’s most popular shows, now’s your chance to find out that it lives up to the hype.
Apollo Victoria Theatre
Buy tickets for Wicked with GO London
Showstopper! The Improvised Musical
If you’re a creative pair looking for a laugh, this is the one. The actors make up a show based on suggestions from the audience so come armed with ideas. It’s the kind that gets you out of your seats, clapping and singing along at the end, so leave the inhibitions at home.
Until March 16, The Other Palace
Buy tickets for Showstopper! with GO London
