Valentines Day, No Shame style

Your boyfriend stands in front of a 200-person crowd, ready to recite a self-penned monologue that could result in public humiliation.

And strangely, you're kind of turned on.

Welcome to the No Shame date.

I recently chatted with Jens Rasmussen, director of the No Shame Theater program in Columbus. He reminded me that No Shame is a good date night activity for Valentine's Day weekend.

Quick primer: No Shame is held every Friday at 10:30 p.m. in the Springer Opera House (enter on First Avenue). It lets you showcase original works in a casual setting.

The first 15 acts to sign up get a five-minute slot. Pieces must be original, and entry is $5. Open to guests 18 and older.

Tired of traditional date activities? Give No Shame a shot, Rasmussen said.

"I think it's perfect," he said. "It's a looser, less formal environment than a restaurant or even a movie."

You'll see material -- everything from monologues to dance -- that will lessen your chances of awkward silences, Rasmussen promised.

"It gives people a place to start conversations that are really interesting and stimulating," he said.

Plus, I think there's something to be said for learning your otherwise bashful date is brave enough to participate in something like No Shame. Even if he is reciting a poem inspired by "Family Guy."

Check out No Shame's Facebook page here.