Photo Flash: MY BIG GAY ITALIAN FUNERAL Celebrates Off-Broadway Opening

"My Big Gay Italian Funeral" which began previews June 1st is now officially open. Last night, June 16, the funeral played to a sold out house followed by an after party at the Hudson Terrace. "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 opened on Father's Day evening. Scroll down for photos from the opening!

"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. 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.