5 Romantic Moments in Theatre

Valentine's Day is nearly upon us. Whether loved-up and wishing to celebrate, or single and hoping to bask in the love of others, a trip to the theatre will not go amiss. So what are the five best romantic scenes?

1. Romeo and Juliet

Yes, we know, we know, we’ll get the most obvious out the way first. But that moment when R + J see each other for the first time… Nothing compares. In the cinema, it might be Leo DiCaprio and Claire Danes spying each other through a fish tank, whilst at the theatre, we could see every other character at the ball freeze, directing all attention onto the protagonists as they dance. Whatever the interpretation, it feels like time hangs still in the air.

2. Cyrano de Bergerac

We have to admit, Romeo and Juliet's ‘love at first sight’ is mostly centred around physical attraction. But Edmond Rostand’s classic tells the story of a deep love that lasts for decades, despite its impossibility due to the protagonist’s looks. Without giving too much away, that scene at the end when Roxanne realises who’s been loving her the entire time... All hearts in the audience melt.

If you're tempted by a truly French love story, Cyrano de Bergerac is currently playing at Théâtre de Ranelagh, a gorgeous historic playhouse located in Paris' 16th arrondissement. 

3. The Sound of Music, the Musical

There is nothing more lovely to see than the softening of a cold heart. Mr Darcy gradually warms up in Pride and Prejudice, as does the guilt-ridden Prince Andrei in War and Peace. A less ‘haute-littérature’ but equally delightful example is the formidable Captain Von Trapp. He and his nanny dance the Ländler together at his ball, twirling and whirling away. Then the music stops, and Maria looks at him, confused and embarrassed. Uhoh, she’s fallin’...

4. War Horse

Does love between a boy and his horse count? It may not be of the romantic sort, but the dedication that young Albert shows towards his horse, Joey, could teach many a couple a thing or two. After Joey is sold off to the cavalry to serve in the First World War, Albert enlists to fight just to find his horse. Simply thinking about the moment when the blinded Albert whistles to Joey - as the injured horse is about to be shot - illicites tears and shivers simultaneously...

5. The Importance of Being Earnest

On a lighter note, everyone loves a comedy. Even more, everyone loves a comedy about love. The best bit of Oscar Wilde's farcical masterpiece is without doubt the morning room scene, when some truths become unravelled and the obstacles standing in the way of Gwendolen and Jack’s union are gradually eliminated… The long and short of it is, we all just need to find a man named Earnest.

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