Photo by Rebecca Gudelunas

West Philly’s Curio Theatre Company is closing out the season with another production that looks back in time to shed light on our current sociopolitical moment. Curio staged Marie Antoinette, a work that highlights political and personal excess, earlier this year. This week Catch-22, an adaptation of Joseph Heller’s classic novel, opens on the Curio’s stage in the Calvary Center for Culture and Community at 4740 Baltimore Ave.

Set during World War II but aimed as a critique of the Cold War and McCarthyism, Catch-22 follows the travails of American bombardier John Yossarian and other soldiers who are walking the fine line between carrying out their duty while trying to remain sane amid the absurdity and hypocrisy of a stultifying bureaucracy. 

Noted local director Claire Moyer is directing the production, which features Curio Company member Chase Byrd as Youssarian (pictured above). The cast also includes Curio Company members Aetna Gallagher, Doug Greene, Sarah Knittel, Aston Carter and Merri Rashoyan. Curio Artistic Director Paul Kuhn designed the set. Amanda Jenson is the sound designer, Victoria Bonito is costume designer and Amanda Jenson is lighting director. Kathleen Soltan is stage manager.

The show runs April 25 through May 19. Opening Night is Friday, April 27 at 8 p.m. Most performances are Thursday through Saturday at 8 p.m. Industry Night is Monday, May 7 at 8 p.m.

Tickets ($15-$30) are available here.