Anthony Annicone Jr., a retired Teacher and respected member of the Rhode Island Theater scene passed away Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at the age of 70. Born in Providence, he was the oldest of two sons born to the late Anthony Annicone Sr. and Anna (Ciruolo) Annicone. He was the brother and best friend of James F. Annicone.
A member of the Bishop Hendricken graduating Class of 1972, Tony went on to receive his Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Assumption College in Worcester. He then furthered his education with a Master’s Degree in Secondary Education from Rhode Island College. Tony taught Drama to many aspiring young theater students as a junior high school teacher for many years prior to his retirement.
His true passion was performing on stage. For over 40 years he showcased his talents as an actor throughout the state of Rhode Island. He graced the stages of the Warwick Players, Academy Players, Community Players, Mill River Dinner Theater, the Newport Playhouse and the Arctic Playhouse. In addition to acting, he was a respected director and his credits include, Rumors (1993), A Life in the Theater (2019), There’s a Burglar in My Bed (2018) (Best Director award from Broadway World) among countless others. When he wasn’t acting or directing, he could be found in the front row for the opening night of a performance. It was from his seat that he would take in the show, take notes and then go home where he would write a review. His Facebook page, ‘Tony’s Corner’ holds hundreds of reviews he has written over the years. He traveled from Connecticut to Fall River, Newport to Beverly, MA watching and reviewing theater performances. He was known to always be fair in his critiques, generous with his praise, and most importantly a champion in his support for the arts.
He has left an indelible mark on the theater community and his loss will be felt across all the stages in Southern New England. The curtain may have closed but his performance will live on in the hearts of all those who had the privilege to know and love him.
Tony’s funeral will be held on Friday, February 14, 2025, at 9:30am from the Thomas & Walter Quinn Funeral Home, 2435 Warwick Ave., Warwick with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11am in St. Peter Church, 350 Fair St., Warwick. Interment will immediately follow in St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston. A Visitation will be held in the Funeral Home, Thursday, February 13, 2025, from 4-7pm. Flowers are respectfully omitted.
