Dear Annie, I Hate You | Riverside Studios

Sam (Samantha Ipema) is young and just trying to figure out her life—like most people in their 20s. She’s dealing with the usual chaos: work, relationships, identity crises—you name it. But unlike most people, Sam’s life takes a seriously unexpected turn when she meets Annie (Eleanor House), and from that moment on, nothing is ever the same. Without spoiling the twist, let’s just say Annie and Sam become almost literally attached at the hip—but with absolutely zero mutual affection. One-sided loathing doesn’t even begin to cover it.

Over the course of this 75-minute show, Sam walks us through her life via a mix of personal stories and what can only be described as multimedia interviews. The set is made up of vintage TV sets, which Sam plugs in one by one at the top of the show—as if she’s powering up old memories. The screens come alive with family, friends, and flashes of the past, chiming in to add commentary or context to what Sam’s saying - created by Douglas Coghlan and Dan Light. It’s a clever use of tech that doesn’t just complement the story—it deepens it. The pacing is tight, the emotional beats hit hard, and the whole production is impressively layered.

Ipema delivered a brilliantly nuanced performance that unfolded in unexpected layers—each more hilarious than the last. Defying all odds, her comedic timing was impeccable, leaving the audience in stitches. Meanwhile, House embodied the exhilarating spirit of beautiful chaos. Even while recovering from a recent injury, she brought explosive energy to the stage, transforming Annie into a character that was not only unforgettable but electric with life.

In the end, Dear Annie, I Hate You isn’t just a quirky, tech-savvy tale about a toxic entanglement—it’s a sharp, heartfelt exploration of identity, memory, and the baggage we carry (sometimes unwillingly). With standout performances, inventive staging, and a story that refuses to play it safe, this production proves that even in the messiest chapters of our lives, there’s room for humor, heartbreak, and the occasional emotional gut punch. It’s strange, smart, and thoroughly original. Don’t miss it.

Dear Annie, I Hate You runs at Riverside Studios until 01st June 2025.

Tickets and More Information

★★★★★ (5*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Photography by Charlie Flint