Off-Broadway veteran actor and producer Anthony J. Wilkinson’s My Big Gay Italian Casino Adventure at Sound Waves at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City premiered last week. The show is expected to become a mainstay next fall, giving guests the chance to enjoy an extremely gay musical in between their casino adventures.
The musical follows the first two weeks of launching the fictional Pinnunziato Palace, Atlantic City’s first LGBTQ inclusive casino. The chaos of opening with an eccentric staff, unruly VIPs, and plenty of interpersonal drama sets the tone for this over-the-top comedy. Strong opinions, stronger Jersey accents, and pop culture references fly fast for all to appreciate. “Love triangles and quadrangles… crazy characters, and new life challenges for owner [Anthony] Pinnunziato can all be expected.”
Between scenes, the show relies on large screens to share off-stage moments. These include pivotal plot points filmed around the colorful casino and even in recognizable hotspots like Byrdcage, a new LGBTQ bar in Atlantic City. The incorporation of these very real places brings the show to life in a creative way. It also makes plans for hitting Byrdcage after the nearly two-hour show feel even more special.
One highlight of the April 11 premier was its incorporation of real Hard Rock employees. Several hotel workers, receptionists, and blazer-studded dealers cameoed in those pre-filmed scenes. A speaking snippet from our kind concierge, Marisol, earned rapturous applause. It’s another reason this show and the Hard Rock are a perfect match.
The show doesn’t shy away from raunchy fun. Think shirtless guys, a passionate push onto the bed before a forbidden hookup, and even some people sleeping with the same character. It all builds toward a rascal race through the audience and a rumor-spreading montage set to Adele’s “Rumor Has It.” “Abracadabra,” off Lady Gaga’s new album, Mayhem, pops in to hype up the audience.
The fast fury of Italian-sounding names makes the story a bit hard to follow at times, but that doesn’t stop the story. There’s a hilarious recurring telenovela-style love confession bit that kept the audience laughing every time it unfolded on stage.
Drama brews between Pinnunziato Palace staff and leadership, with secrets revealed and drama on the rise. A gay hookup between boss and employee stirs the pot, and one character hilariously declares, “I’d rather lick Times Square [than a vagina]” — gold star gay energy all the way.
Though many jokes rely on veteran gay knowledge and a grasp of the socio-homo zeitgeist, everyone can find something to enjoy in this show. Name drops of Cher, a barrage of rainbow balloons, and explicitly queer characters elevate the show to gay heights. “Streisand Steakhouse” and “Ravioli and Rainbows” flank the casino, giving the whole setting a campy gay paradise vibe. And yes, there’s a Golden Girls slot machine, because obviously.
Expect casino humor: jokes about bad tippers and the unreasonably high expectations of VIP guests. Against a rival casino, The Fortress, our crew struggles to find solutions to their unending sea of problems. Though the launch shares exaggerated chaos, it’s relatable to the surplus of stress in the workplace. That’s why it’s a good watch — letting other people panic about their jobs while you can take the night off and relax is pretty priceless. Another major takeaway from this new-age show? Maybe don’t hook up with coworkers — even in a glittery gay casino. Because you may not be the only one after his heart…
The performers maneuver through the crowd, which adds an engaging, immersive element. There are some powerful personalities on stage— some louder than others — but everyone brings a big, fun energy that feels right at home at the Hard Rock.
Before the show, grab dinner at the fine dining outlet Council Oaks Steak and Seafood. The beachside view is perfect for people-watching, not to mention the delectable steak and mashed potatoes (infused with chives and garlic) that were mouthwatering levels of good. My friend and I couldn’t stop gushing about them the entire drive home.
Hard Rock in Atlantic City is proving to be an affirming ally. With the upcoming My Big Gay Italian Casino, Pride Flag raising ceremonies, and performances from openly gay artists like Khalid coming in June, they’re showing a commitment to inclusive, queer entertainment. The Hard Rock is proving to be the ultimate spot for LGBTQ travelers coming to New Jersey’s most famous boardwalk.
Even if you’re not a big gambler, you can stroll through the mazes of slot machines to boost your serotonin levels. Prime for people watching, hit one of the casino’s plentiful bars, and look out at the fun unfolding around you. You may also spot outfits from stars like Lady Gaga, Britney Spears, and Gwen Stefani.
A stay at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino includes a built-in museum of music’s best outfits, guitars, and ensembles. There’s even a dedicated New Jersey section on the second floor, boasting Jon Bon Giovi and Bruce Springsteen relics. Pieces of looseleaf paper boasting original lyrics and historic photos of other New Jersey greats Dionne Warwick, Wycleff Jean, and Lauryn Hill also adorned the area. There was even a section on Asbury Park’s Stone Pony and its undeniable legacy in bringing rock music to the Jersey Shore.
It’s clear My Big Gay Italian Casino is still in previews — there’s a lot of telling rather than showing — but the premise is strong and promising. The show is still finding its footing, but with rascal races, shirtless gags, and jokes for the girls and the gays, it’s undoubtedly a fun night out with friends. Get your tickets in the fall, or visit sooner by booking a stay at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City — you won’t regret it.
This will be Wilkinson’s 7th play Off Broadway, joining past works as My Big Gay Italian Wedding, Boys Just Wanna Have Fun, My Big Gay Italian Funeral, My Big Gay Italian Midlife Crisis, The Real Housewives of Secaucus, and My Big Gay Italian Christmas.
