The original play 'Unplugged Electric Guitar,' written and directed by Danny Rocco, is concluding its inaugural run at the Hollywood Fringe Festival with final performances on June 20 and 21 at Thymele Arts in Los Angeles. The emotionally charged production examines the profound changes that occur when individuals let go of their dreams, inspired by a real conversation Rocco had with his father.
The play centers on two pivotal conversations. In the first, Tom (David Gueriera) convinces his son Danny (Danny Rocco) to abandon his writing aspirations. Years later, Danny faces a similar dilemma when given the opportunity to mentor a young artist, forcing him to decide whether to pass on inspiration or the fear he inherited. Rocco describes the play as 'the closest thing to a horror story I could imagine,' highlighting the subtle, cumulative sacrifices that drain artists 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 self-acceptance and societal judgment. 'We all—not just artists—have deep moments of sadness when it comes to our work, trying to understand how it fits into our identities,' she explains. 'It's a universal experience to ask yourself if you're less than because of the work you do.'
Rocco began writing the play ten years ago to better understand his relationship with his father, art, and middle age. While the process didn't yield concrete answers, it deepened his empathy and affirmed his path. 'For me, an artist who has not given up, to write a play about giving up is both spiritually important and dangerous,' Rocco says. To separate himself from his personal story, he and Michelle returned to foundational acting techniques.
The cast includes Danny Rocco, David Gueriera, Nathan Norrington-Herr, and Jack Little. 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, with a run time of 90 minutes including intermission at Thymele Arts, 5481 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles.
Rocco hopes audiences leave with greater compassion for the complexities of being a working artist and for those who make the difficult decision to leave their dreams behind. The play's significance lies in its universal resonance, challenging viewers to reflect on their own aspirations and the societal pressures that shape their choices.
