Atlantic City, September 30, 2025
News Summary
Anthony Wilkinson’s vibrant performance, ‘My Big Gay Italian Casino Adventure,’ comes to the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, celebrating LGBTQ+ culture. The show reflects Wilkinson’s experiences and aims to connect with both the community and guests. Additionally, the city welcomes ByrdCage, a full-service LGBTQ+-owned restaurant and bar, enhancing inclusivity and joy in the area.
Atlantic City Welcomes Anthony Wilkinson’s “My Big Gay Italian Casino Adventure”
Anthony Wilkinson, a Staten Island native, is set to bring his vibrant theatrical performance, “My Big Gay Italian Casino Adventure,” to the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City on October 10 and 11. The show reflects Wilkinson’s extensive ties to Philadelphia, incorporating numerous references that highlight his experiences within the city’s lively gay community.
Wilkinson’s connections to Philadelphia run deep, as he recalls visiting notable bars like Woody’s and Ubar during his earlier years. This performance is a continuation of his effort to uplift the LGBTQ+ community, especially given his conservative upbringing on Staten Island, where he encountered bullying and challenges regarding acceptance before coming out.
After being awarded a full scholarship to New York University, Wilkinson focused on creative writing while nurturing his passion for theater. His impressive tenure on the soap opera “One Life to Live,” which lasted 15 years, helped him acquire essential skills in production and the management of complex personalities within the entertainment industry.
Wilkinson’s career trajectory led to the debut of “My Big Gay Italian Wedding,” which premiered off-Broadway in 2009 and reached an audience of 2,000 at St. George Theatre. His current work, “My Big Gay Italian Casino Adventure,” follows the journey of his character, Anthony Pinnunziato, who aspires to open the first gay and lesbian casino in America. Wilkinson asserts this concept holds the potential to become a reality one day.
Having performed at the Hard Rock for nearly two years, Wilkinson enjoys a supportive relationship with the venue. This was most notably celebrated with a Pride flag-raising event in June, symbolizing the hotel’s commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusivity. Future performances of “My Big Gay Italian Casino Adventure” are planned several times a year, carefully scheduled to maintain a balanced routine.
In addition, the city has recently welcomed ByrdCage, a new gay and lesbian restaurant and bar located at 3426 Atlantic Ave. This establishment is significant as it is the first full-service LGBTQ+-owned venue in Atlantic City in over two decades. ByrdCage aims to create an inviting atmosphere for both LGBTQ+ and straight communities, offering a diverse menu paired with events that include a piano lounge, drag events, and theme nights designed to foster a sense of connection and joy.
The opening of ByrdCage was ceremonially celebrated with a ribbon-cutting attended by local dignitaries and community leaders. This event underscored the importance of such inclusive spaces in light of today’s political climate, providing a nurturing environment for members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies.
As Wilkinson takes the stage in Atlantic City, both his journey and the establishment of ByrdCage highlight a growing momentum for LGBTQ+ recognition and celebration in entertainment and community-focused spaces.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Show Title | My Big Gay Italian Casino Adventure |
| Performance Dates | October 10 and 11 |
| Location | Sound Waves, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City |
| Character | Anthony Pinnunziato |
| New Venue | ByrdCage |
| ByrdCage Location | 3426 Atlantic Ave, Atlantic City |
| ByrdCage Features | Piano lounge, drag events, theme nights |
| Significance of ByrdCage | First full-service LGBTQ+-owned venue in Atlantic City in over two decades |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the title of Anthony Wilkinson’s show?
My Big Gay Italian Casino Adventure
When will the performances take place?
Performances are scheduled for October 10 and 11.
Where will the show be held?
The show will take place at Sound Waves in Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City.
What character does Wilkinson play in the show?
Anthony Pinnunziato.
What is ByrdCage?
ByrdCage is a new gay and lesbian restaurant and bar.
Where is ByrdCage located?
ByrdCage is located at 3426 Atlantic Ave, Atlantic City.
What features does ByrdCage include?
ByrdCage includes a piano lounge, drag events, theme nights, and various comfort food options.
Why is ByrdCage significant?
ByrdCage is significant as it is the first full-service LGBTQ+-owned venue in Atlantic City in over two decades.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Philadelphia’s Weekend: Festivals, Concerts, and Events
Philadelphia Summer 2025: A Season of Culture and Fun
Martha Graham Cracker Celebrates 20 Years of Cabaret in Philadelphia
Additional Resources
- Best of NJ: ByrdCage is the Go-To LGBTQ Bar in Atlantic City
- Wikipedia: LGBTQ+ Community in the United States
- Philly Voice: Atlantic City LGBTQ Bar ByrdCage Opening
- Google Search: ByrdCage Atlantic City
- Courier Post: Atlantic City Gay Bar Restaurant ByrdCage Opens
- Google Scholar: LGBTQ Bars in New Jersey
- New Jersey Monthly: ByrdCage Review
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lesbian
- NBC New York: Atlantic City Embraces Its LGBTQ Community
- Google News: LGBTQ Events in Atlantic City
Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.
