Josh Languedoc has managed to weave together many stories together in his solo show Rocko and Nakota: Tales from the Land. The play is a bit rocky to begin with, but pulls through a strong series of stories about strength and struggle.
The play tells of Nakota, a young boy who is trying to create the greatest story ever. He tries to get inspiration from the Avengers or from X-Men. It is then revealed that Nakota is in the hospital because he is suffering from fainting spells and the doctors don’t know what he is suffering from. Nakota’s grandfather Rocko comes to visit him and Nakota has mixed feelings about this as he isn’t sure why his Grandfather stopped visiting him when he was younger.
The lighting design allows the show to jump characters and time setting, but Languedoc is distinguished in his characters and their different storytelling voices.
Rocko and Nakota: Tales from the Land has multiple stories layered on top of each other and Languedoc has a talent at creating whole characters in a short period of time. The play is filled with tales about finding the courage to ask for help, finding the calm within the chaos.
Rocko and Nakota: Tales from the Land is part of the Calgary Fringe Festival. There are 4 more shows. More information is available online.