Forget Flowers—This is the Valentine’s Gift That Actually Means Something
Let’s be honest. Valentine’s Day gifts have gotten a little… predictable. A bouquet that dies in a week, a box of chocolates that’s half gone before dinner, maybe a cute card with a pun about avocados. Sweet? Sure. Memorable? Not so much.
If you really want to impress someone this year—your partner, your newly engaged besties, or even yourself—give them something that actually lasts. Not in the physical sense (because no one needs more stuff), but in the way that really matters. An experience that makes you feel something.
This year, skip the clichés and get tickets to Life After at the CAA Ed Mirvish Theatre.
Britta Johnson and Isabella Esler, Photography by Michael Cooper | @coopershoots
What is Life After?
It’s not your typical love story. But it is about love—just in a way that feels more real. It follows Alice, a 16-year-old girl trying to make sense of life after losing her father, a famous self-help author. He had all the answers for the world, but not the ones she needed. As she pieces together her own version of the truth, she learns about grief, identity, and moving forward—whether you’re ready or not.
It’s raw, it’s beautiful, and it’s written by Britta Johnson, a Canadian playwright who’s basically the next big thing in musical theatre. If you love shows like Dear Evan Hansen or Next to Normal, you’ll love her, her work, and this brilliant new show.
Isabella Esler Photography by Michael Cooper | @coopershoots
Why It Works: It’s The Gift That Works for Every Kind of Love
Some gifts are one-size-fits-all, but in the worst way. Life After is one-size-fits-all in the best way. It doesn’t matter who you bring—this is the kind of night that makes you feel closer to the people in your life.
For couples: If your “date nights” lately have just been rewatching The Office for the 12th time and it’s time to shake things up, this is 100% the way to do it.
For newlyweds: Invited to a wedding and don’t know what to gift? They likely don’t need another kitchen appliance, so give them a night out that reminds them why they fell in love with love in the first place.
For your best friend who deserves a night out: Because let’s be real—Valentine’s Day is for celebrating all kinds of love, not just the kind with heart emojis in the group chat.
For a bachelor(ette) party that doesn’t involve bottle service: Downtown Toronto, a night at the theatre, and a little pre- or post-show cocktail? That’s how you do it with style.
Bonus: It’s Full of Canadian Talent You’ll Want to Brag About Later
This isn’t some imported Broadway show. This is ours. A Canadian-written musical with a cast that’s absolutely stacked with talent:
Isabella Esler—fresh off Beetlejuice: The Musical, bringing all the heart to Alice’s journey.
Jake Epstein—yes, Craig from Degrassi, but also a legit Broadway star (Beautiful: The Carole King Musical).
Chilina Kennedy—a powerhouse who’s owned the Broadway stage in Beautiful and Jesus Christ Superstar.
Seeing these performers before they blow up even more? Those are the kind of bragging rights you want.
Moral of the story? This is a Valentine’s Gift That Won’t End Up in the Trash
No offence to roses and chocolates, but they’ve had their moment. Give a gift that creates a core memory—something you’ll talk about long after the curtain closes.
Tickets are selling fast. Grab yours now, before you end up panic-buying another teddy bear.
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