The 'Italian' Job

The world is a very different place today than it was when "My Big Gay Italian Wedding" premiered in 2003 -- Massachusetts didn't legalize same-sex marriages until 2004 and the California Prop 8 debacle wouldn't happen for another four years -- so writer/star Anthony J. Wilkinson needed a complete rewrite to prepare his lighthearted look at the matrimonial trials and tribulations of a nice Italian boy and his hunky Polish lover for a post-Bush world. Michael and I were delighted to be invited to the show's off-Broadway opening night at St. Luke's Theatre, where a packed house was on hand to see the real deal after two weeks of rehearsal performances. Wilkinson reprises his role as Anthony (a character name that Tony Danza would be proud of), and Reichen Lehmkuhl steps into the role of Andrew, which was previously played by fellow reality TV graduate James Getzlaff (of "Boy Meets Boy" fame).

When we arrived, we were quickly informed that the Logo television camera crew was there, filming material for the new "Gay Housewives" show on which Reichen and his current beau, Rodiney (sic) Santiago, will be featured. Following the play, we attended the after-party at Social, where the entire cast -- and Logo camera crew, complete with unbelievably unflattering lighting gear -- celebrated late into the night. It was a fun night, with the only thing missing being the show's producer Dina Manzo (of "Real Housewives of New Jersey" fame), who was attending her niece's wedding in the Garden State. (I REALLY wanted to have a word with her about that Caroline!!!!) Photo highlights below. For ticket information, please click HERE.

Lights, camera, action ..

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Rodiney Santiago and Reichen Lehmkuhl

With my star, Bernard Michael

Anchorman Ron Corning, Jesse Rodriguez and the star of the show, Anthony Wilkinson

With Mr. Brazil

Fabio Taliercio (who plays the evil Gregorio) and weatherman Mike Woods

Oops, forgot my spray tan!

Meagan Robar, Liz Gerecitano, who play feuding lesbians Lucia and Connie

News anchor Ken Rosato, Chris Sobel and Javi Morgado