By Lisa Steiner
Quiz, Community Players in Beatrice, Friday February 13, 2026
This weekend and next, Community Players in Beatrice puts on the North American premier of Quiz. Originally premiering in the UK, Quiz was nominated for two 2019 Olivier Awards, including Best New Comedy. It follows the intriguing case of Charles and Diana Ingram, fraudsters and contestants of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire in Britain. Based on a true story, we see what happens before, after, and during the trial of these two infamous know-it-alls (or are they?).
With the audience wrapped around the stage, the cast of 12 portrays over 30 characters. The ensemble works well together, with most actors not only switching between several roles but also serving as their own stage crew, doing so seamlessly. Simple costuming and props helped distinguish between characters as well. Compelling lighting, music, and slides set the mood, allowing the audience to believe they’re apart of the game show itself. And, hey, they are! Each audience member is invited to use a set of cards to answer some of the multiple-choice questions in real time, with results being included in the story.
CP takes on another ambitious choice in Quiz. At times, the pacing struggles, but with a fascinating story, it’s hard not to sit forward in your seat to follow the madcap plot. Standout performances were seen from Michelle Frederick as Diana Ingram, and Zach Hartwick, Callan Williams, and Connor Tietz in their various roles. All players stayed on stage and engaged for the entirety of the show, and each showed their dedication to bringing the story to life. The play also strikes a chord when discussing truth, confirmation bias, and the justice system, themes that are ever present in today’s world.
If you go: Remaining performances of Quiz are February 14-15 and 20-22, with Friday and Saturday shows at 7:30pm and Sunday shows at 2:00pm. Tickets information can be found online at https://www.beatricecommunityplayers.com/ or by calling the box office at 402-228-1801.
Community Players
412 Ella St
Beatrice, NE 68310
Box Office Hours
Monday – Friday 12:00pm-5:00pm
& 2 hours before performances
Lisa Steiner is a long-time lover of theater and the arts who enjoys performing on stage, in the pit, and filling the role of patron. During the day, Lisa works for the Department of Health and Human Services. In her free time, Lisa enjoys trying to keep up with her two cats, Lucy and Francine.
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