Catch 22 at the Northern Stage Newcastle Review
Catch 22
Northern Stage, Newcastle
19 April to 10 May 2014
Reviewed by Amy Jones
Last night I had the privilege to review The Northern Stage production of Catch 22, a novel by Joseph Heller and what a fantastic night I have had!
When you first arrive to your seat you are overwhelmed by the incredible stage. A fantastically creative display of the inside of a WW2 plane compete with jackets, parachutes and even a 1940s pin up girl is on display. The play is kick started by a parachute landing from the sky with ‘Catch 22’ written on it, which I thought was a very witty way to open the show.
The novel is based around the Second World War and follows the story of one pilot called Yossarian. It shows his struggles with coping with the war, the development of friendships and relationships and the struggle with his own mental health, and coming to terms with losing all the people he cares about. Through Yossarian’s struggle throughout the play you get a sense of the futility of war, and the impossible situations that people are placed in where you literally are damned if you do something, or damned if you don’t!
This adaptation of the novel is extremely clever, Rachel Chavkin is the director. She portrays the sadness and tragic nature of the war but somehow manages to bring humour and real laugh out loud moments throughout the production. Her clever use of props, set changes and dancing helps the story to flow in a seamless manner. The 9 strong cast act in over 30 different roles which makes the play seem less ‘crowded’ than it could of potentially have been.
The cast were all fantastic and it was obvious they were dedicated to the play, and committed to the roles. Philip Arditti, who portrays Yossarian, plays an excellent lead role, he is so convincing and really draws you into his Yossarian’s life. Another mention is definitely Geoff Arnold who plays various characters in the production, however his awkward, nervous portrayal of the chaplain is outstanding. Every character he played in this production was portrayed differently by his incredible acting skills, making you forget it was the same actor for all the parts!
Overall, this was a brilliant adaptation of the famous novel, I would recommend this play to my friends and family.
Rating: 4.5/5
Tickets cost from £14.50 to £24.
For more information or to book tickets click here or call the box office on 0191 230 5151.
Northern Stage, Barras Bridge,Newcastle Upon Tyne,Tyne and Wear, NE1 7RH | 0191 230 5151
