Quiz was commissioned by William Village. First produced by Chichester Festival Theatre in 2017 by arrangement with William Village and subsequently produced in the West End of London at the Noël Coward Theatre by William Village and Playful Productions and Chichester Festival Theatre.
Quiz is a fictional imagination based on real events which took place in 2001 following an episode of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? It is not in any way connected with the makers of the programme or any of the individuals portrayed. The television programme “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?” is produced by 2waytraffic.
Quiz is a gripping and darkly funny play by James Graham that explores the real-life scandal surrounding Charles Ingram, the former army major accused of cheating his way to the top prize on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? in 2001.
The play examines not just the infamous “coughing scandal” — where Ingram was alleged to have used coughs from accomplices in the audience to identify correct answers — but also the broader question of truth, trial by media, and how public opinion is shaped in the modern world.
Graham uses his signature blend of documentary theatre, satire, and audience participation to challenge perceptions of guilt and innocence. The first act presents the prosecution’s case — making Ingram appear clearly guilty — while the second act flips the perspective, revealing evidence that casts doubt on the entire accusation.
Through its inventive staging, humour, and moral ambiguity, Quiz becomes more than a courtroom drama: it’s a reflection on how entertainment, justice, and media intertwine in contemporary society.
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