There are two important reasons to go to the theatre in February: one is for love, and the other is to keep the kids happy: yes it’s half term again!

The fact that Valentine’s Day is slap bang in the middle of half term this year might mean that the only option is to take the kids to see Shrek - the Musical, but if the kids are on holiday it does mean that it will be easier to get midweek babysitters… so there is no excuse not to go for a romantic theatre break.

But what to see… and what not to see. There is generally a lot of love in your average musical. Let’s face it, there are not many other emotions that will prompt you to sing (although if you heard me sing you may think that indigestion would rightly have a place on that list).

But is it the right sort of love? The hero may fall for his heroine, but if it is her big green ears that attract him to her, what does that say about the person you are treating to a night on the town?

Mamma Mia is a great night out - set on a Greek isle, just before a wedding, but although the ending is romantic, maybe it is not the thing to go to see if you are recently affianced.

And Phantom of the Opera - One of the most famous shows and truly a lover’s treat but isn’t there something of the stalker about the whole thing?

So What are the five sure fire shows to treat your loved one to on Valentine’s theatre break?

Ghost - the Musical - Just like the film - a real weepy and great for the potter in your life.

Crazy For You - a guy finds love in the wild west

Midnight Tango - Vincent and Flavia from Strictly Come Dancing show us how to do it standing up!

Rock of Ages - Love in an LA Rock venue - what’s the line? Our civets rub together throwing sparks into the night. Not from this show but apt nonetheless!

Singin’ in the Rain - Classic old black and white love

And if you want to push the boat out - literally - Dirty Dancing is on in Dublin!

And just to make my point

Here are 4 shows you DO NOT want to take your loved one to.

Hay Fever

The Heresy of Love

The Taming of the Shrew

The Lady Killers

And if you are not feeling brave you could add Shrek to that list too!