This may just be the cutest thing ever.
Shakespeare in Action, a professional theatre company and registered Canadian charity that provides educational programs for youth throughout the GTA, is offering you the chance to send a loved one a live Shakespeare sonnet—recited by a kid—this Valentine’s Day. O.M.G.
Basically, you pick either Sonnet 29 (sUpEr RoMaNtIc) or Sonnet 104 (more on the friendly side) for $25, and decide who you want it to be recited to. Then, between 4:30pm and 6:30pm on Valentine’s Day, a Shakespeare Kid (aged seven to 12) will call your chosen companion and recite the sonnet to him or her over the phone. Plus, a Shakespeare Kid will also sign and mail a personalized copy of the sonnet to your Valentine.
Even better? Proceeds from the Sonnets By Kids program will go to Shakespeare in Action outreach programs throughout the GTA, including the TD Shakespeare for Kids Library Club (a free reader’s theatre program that alone has served over 4,000 children, many of whom were from Toronto’s priority neighbourhoods).
Srsly, so kyooooot! You can book your Shakespeare sonnet until Feb. 13 at 5pm.
*Tip: probably best to warn your Valentine that he or she will be getting a call sometime within those two hours on V-Day (you don’t want to miss a call from the Bard!).