The original play 'Unplugged Electric Guitar,' written and directed by Danny Rocco, will conclude its inaugural run at the Hollywood Fringe Festival with final performances on June 20-21 at Thymele Arts in Los Angeles. The production, which has garnered praise during its run, delves into the complexities of pursuing art and the painful decision to abandon one's dreams.
Inspired by a real conversation Rocco had with his father, the play unfolds through two pivotal breakfast conversations. In the first, Tom (David Gueriera) convinces Danny (Danny Rocco) to give up his writing ambitions. Years later, Danny mentors a young artist and must choose between passing down inspiration or the fear he inherited. Rocco describes the play as 'the closest thing to a horror story I could imagine,' examining the subtle ways artists are drained of their purpose.
Award-winning director Chivonne Michelle, returning to theater after a decade in television, was drawn to the play's exploration of a queer man navigating societal acceptance and career identity. 'It's a universal experience to ask yourself if you're less than because of the work you do,' she said. The show also features Nathan Norrington-Herr and Jack Little.
Rocco began writing the play ten years ago to understand his relationship with his father, art, and middle age. Though he didn't find concrete answers, he gained empathy and confirmation of his path. 'For me, an artist who has not given up, to write a play about giving up is both spiritually important and dangerous,' he said. He and Michelle returned to foundational acting techniques to separate his personal story from the role.
Tickets are $20 (plus $3 service fee) and available through the Hollywood Fringe Festival website. Remaining performances are Saturday, June 20 at 8pm and Sunday, June 21 at 3pm. Run time is 90 minutes including intermission at Thymele Arts, 5481 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles.
Rocco hopes audiences leave with more compassion for working artists and those who make the heartbreaking choice to leave their dreams behind. 'Unplugged Electric Guitar' offers a tender, introspective look at the cost of creative ambition.
