The original play "Unplugged Electric Guitar," written and directed by Danny Rocco, is set to conclude its inaugural run at the Hollywood Fringe Festival with final performances on June 20-21 at Thymele Arts in Los Angeles. The production, inspired by a real conversation Rocco had with his father, examines the profound changes that occur when individuals let go of their dreams.
Over the course of two intimate conversations, the play follows Tom (David Gueriera) convincing his son Danny (Danny Rocco) to abandon his writing pursuits. Years later, Danny is offered the chance to mentor a young artist, forcing him to decide whether to pass down inspiration or the fear he inherited. Rocco describes the work 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 of television work, was drawn to the play's exploration of queer identity and societal expectations. "We all—not just artists—have deep moments of sadness when it comes to our work," she said. "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 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 artistic path. "For me, an artist who has not given up, to write a play about giving up is both spiritually important and dangerous," he noted. To separate himself from the role, Rocco and Michelle revisited foundational acting techniques they learned together in school.
The cast also includes Nathan Norrington-Herr and Jack Little. Tickets are $20 (plus $3 service fee) and are available through the Hollywood Fringe Festival website. Remaining performances are Saturday, June 20 at 8pm and Sunday, June 21 at 3pm. The 90-minute show includes an 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 heartbreaking choice to leave their dreams behind. The play serves as a poignant reminder of the personal costs associated with creative ambition and the resilience required to navigate them.
