MY BIG GAY ITALIAN FUNERAL Opens Today at St. Luke's Theatre

"My Big Gay Italian Funeral" which began previews June 1st is set to open today, June 16th. After sold out previews filled with standing ovations and great feedback, the show has already picked up momentum and is gearing up for its official opening weekend. "My Big Gay Italian Funeral" is yet another comedy from Wilkinson and uses some of the same characters from "My Big Gay Italian Wedding." The father (Joe Pinnunziato) is now deceased and we introduce some new characters, namely Anthony's gay brother Peter Pinnunziato, who he hasn't spoken to in over a decade. Family drama and crazy characters unite when everything that can possibly happen at an Italian wake certainly will!

Three-time Emmy award winner Anthony J. Wilkinson's comedic but heart felt portrayal of the autobiographical story of his real life Father's passing, coincidentally opens on Father's Day evening. A special list of guests are already confirmed that have appeared with Wilkinson in "My Big Gay Italian Wedding" (celebrating its ten year anniversary this November). The opening night party will follow at Hudson Terrace and is open to all ticket holders Sunday evening.

"My Big Gay Italian Funeral" is being presented by Bianco Productions and is directed by two-time Emmy award winning Director, Sonia Blangiardo. Sonia received Emmy's for her work on "One Life To Live" and "As The World Turns" and is currently the Supervising Producer for the new "All My Children." Sonia also directed the latest revival of "My Big Gay Italian Wedding."

The cast of "My Big Gay Italian Funeral" includes Anthony J. Wilkinson (Anthony), Brian Murphy (Peter), Marissa Perry (Maria), Brett Douglas (Maurizio), Donna Castellano (Angela), Chad Kessler (Rabbi Howie Horowitz), Debra Toscano (Toniann), Mustafa Gatollari (Dominick), Erik Ransom (Vidal), Liz Gerecitano (Lucia), Meagan Robar (Connie, Eva, Aunt Donna), Beth Dzuricky (Ondine), Brandon Goins (Ezio) and Marie Fontaine (Ensemble).

"My Big Gay Italian Wedding" and "My Big Gay Italian Funeral" are both on sale and scheduled to run till the end of August. Performances of both shows will be at St. Luke's Theatre (308 West 46th Street, between 8th and 9th Avenues). Tickets are $69.50, including $1.50 restoration fee, and are available through Telecharge.com or by phone at 212/239-6200.