UNPLUGGED ELECTRIC GUITAR

This was the best piece of theatre I have seen in the last few years. The story and characters resonated with me in a deeply personal way and the energy in the room throughout the performance told me I wasn't alone in this feeling. The story, about a father and son's relationship and the riddle that is pursuing your passion while simultaneously meeting the demands of growing up and living in the world echoes into the second act, where the character, Danny, must answer the same questions again, but from a new point of view, later in life. A lot of self-scripted work, or plays where the writer also plays a main character, can end up indulgent and focused on demonstrating the depth or range of the performer, a personal showcase. Unplugged E... full review

This production was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment it started, I was completely drawn into the world of the play. The acting was phenomenal across the board- it felt grounded and authentic. Danny is a one of a kind writer. Every scene flowed smoothly, with natural, meaningful dialogue that has stuck with me even days after seeing the show. I have such a deep respect for all who are involved in this production. This show deserves to win an award!!! ... full review

This is the type of show that makes a festival like this so special. I was blown away by the writing, the delicious realism of the performances... I laughed, I cried! It's a play for anyone with a passion and a dream, and hits especially close to home for writers and theatre makers. Somehow delicate and heavy-hitting at once - because it's so truthful and full of life. Playwright and star Danny Rocco utilized his signature, immersive 'SWSEng' playwriting method to great effect - the sound design and dialogue (down to the breath) dovetail in exquisite choreography, with an attention to detail that makes this intimate kitchen-sink piece come to life. A must-see for Fringe-goers and any theatre fans in Los Angeles.... full review

Unplugged Electric Guitar is a poignant drama filled with heart and humor, wonderfully nuanced in both its storytelling and finely drawn characters, brilliantly performed by its talented cast. I saw the preview performance and I’m still thinking about the play over a week later. The play’s two acts—separated by time and circumstances—are connected by the journey of central character Danny— sensitively portrayed by the playwright Danny Rocco. Act I explores an awkward and tender reconnection between Danny and his father, and much of the drama seems to live and breathe just beneath the surface of the dialogue, centering around things not said—until things ARE said! Wow! Act II is designed more comedically, but the emotional weight of the ... full review

I was immediately gripped by the subtlety to every element of this production. It's rare to find such a vulnerable, realistic, patient and almost cinematic experience like this at the Hollywood Fringe. ... full review

Exceptional writing & wonderful performances. Unplugged Electric Guitar is both universal and specific - I'm so happy to have seen it.... full review

Unplugged Electric Guitar gets to the core of each of its characters and shows us, unfiltered, who they are. It examines dreams and how they change, family in all its different shapes, and asks: when do you hold onto something good, and when is it time to let go? A truly touching and grounded show.... full review

Really lovely show that’s a little bit Miller a little bit Stringberg. An emotional but understated and well acted piece of art that could only be theater. ... full review

Daring piece of theater. The playwright asks all the questions that we (those who seek our joy, our kicks, and our living pursuing dreams) try to avoid. It really is so easy to not do the thing you love! And so easy to forget why you love it. And you haven’t had some kind of great success yet, what does that say about you? About whether you should do it or not? And as you age and accrue responsibilities and baggage and perspective and people to which you are accountable besides yourself, you really have to ask yourself these things with a deeper kind of probing. Here is a play that does that for us, in the way only theatrical drama can. ... full review

I am still thinking about this show a week after seeing the preview. The beauty, joy, struggle, and tragedy of being an artist is all captured by Rocco's script, great direction, and grounded performances. I highly recommend this show.... full review