The WhatsOnStage guide to a stagey Valentine's Day for singles
With the internet awash with articles including "Where to take your loved one this Valentine's Day" or "The most romantic places to spend Valentine's Day in London", we were wondering, in true Beyonce style, what about "all the single people".
So in this article you will not find any recommendations for restaurants with pretty lighting, nor will there be a list of shows that will make your loved one shed a tear. This one is for those of you who are happy being free and single.
So switch off Tinder, logout of Match.com and have yourself a stagey Valentine's Day.
Have a night in with David Tennant and Catherine Tate
Digital Theatre is hosting an online watchalong of Shakespeare’s romantic comedy, Much Ado About Nothing, starring David Tennant and Catherine Tate.
The play is a lighthearted cynical look at love, perfect for singles who are looking for a quiet night in front of the telly with a glass of wine and some hobnobs.
Press play on Friday at 7pm, and share your reactions in real time with theatre lovers across the world. Join in the conversation on twitter using the hashtag #MuchAdoOnScreen.
Go speed dating with a difference at IdeasTap Takeover:Love
To help you escape the mush this Valentine's Day, IdeasTap are taking over the whole of Rich Mix and putting on a five-day festival of creativity. Whether you love or loathe St Valentine, there's something for everyone including:
Miscellany – Friday 14 February – 7pm & 8pm: A series of one-on-one encounters in which audience members will meet a host of characters from different centuries, continents, and cultures as they share stories and reveal their thoughts on love. Fusing poetry, songs, and letters, this intimate theatrical experience takes you on a whistle-stop tour through love.
Be amazed by circus acts, showgirls and a fire-breathing pig
Taking place in a grand-scale and secret location, Black Cat Cabaret brings to life the backstreets of vintage Montmartre.
Hosted by the oddest odd couple in cabaret: Frisky (Frisky & Mannish) and Marcel Lucont, with full line-up to be announced: this immersive, theatrical production will include world-class jaw-dropping circus acts, Vicky Butterfly swinging on a giant silver moon, mad comic musicians, a fire-breathing pig, Black Cat resident showgirls, a stellar company of cabaret guests and an after-party with live music and DJs until 2am.
The venue, tucked away just a minute’s walk from St Pancras Station, is revealed on purchase, more information here.
Explore the amorous arts
Following the success of their 2012 Valentine's ball, the Artful Badger return this year with The Art of Hearts at the Vault Festival. Secret performances, two rooms of music and large scale installations set the scene for mischief and match making. According to the organisers, the event includes "Sweet siren song, beautiful bondage ladies, stalls, games, alluring aerial performances, delectable dancers and of course…a romantically rampant party."
Get cultured with some Beckett
Lisa Dwan's acclaimed performance of three Beckett monologues, Not I/Footfalls/Rockaby, transfered from the Royal Court to the West End's Duchess Theatre where it closes this week. Use this opportunity to catch it before it goes on tour. We can safely promise you that there will be no mushiness involved.
Got any other stagey plans for Valentine's Day? We'd love to hear about them! Let us know below or on twitter.
