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 20-21 at Thymele Arts in Los Angeles. The play, described by Rocco as 'the closest thing to a horror story I could imagine,' examines the slow, subtle ways artists convince themselves to abandon their higher purpose.
The story is inspired by a real conversation Rocco had with his own father. Over breakfast, Tom (played by David Gueriera) convinces Danny (played by Rocco) to give up his pursuit of writing. Years later, Danny is given the chance to mentor a young artist and must decide whether to pass down inspiration or the fear that was bestowed upon him. The play uses two intimate conversations to explore how people change when they let go of their dreams.
Director Chivonne Michelle, returning to theater after a decade working in television, was drawn to the play's exploration of what it means to be a successful working artist. 'What excited me was exploring a queer man who's been on the journey of accepting himself and how the world accepts him, who then chose a career that society also doesn't understand,' she said. '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. 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 as a way to understand his relationship with his father, art, and middle age. With the show now live, he says he gained more empathy for his father and confirmation he is on the right path. 'For me, an artist who has not given up, to write a play about giving up is both spiritually important and dangerous,' Rocco said. 'I felt very exposed taking on the role because there are so many personal details about my life in this character.'
The play features Danny Rocco, David Gueriera, Nathan Norrington-Herr and Jack Little. Tickets are 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.
Rocco hopes audiences leave with more compassion for the complexity of being a working artist and for those who make the heartbreaking decision to leave their dreams behind. The play's exploration of identity and sacrifice resonates beyond the arts community, touching on universal themes of pursuing passion versus practicality.
