Lou Criscuolo

January 23, 1934 - December 13, 2014
Lou Criscuolo


Lou Criscuolo, founder of Opera House Theatre Company, of Wilmington died Saturday, December 13, 2014 at his home.

He was born January 23, 1934 in New York City the son of the late Aniello Criscuolo and Giovanna Madonna Criscuolo.

Lou was a talented actor and patron of the arts who founded the Opera House Theatre Company and forever changed the perception of performing arts in the Wilmington area. He was an active member of the Screen Actors Guild, loved film, live theater and all forms of art and antiques. He was a man who left a legacy to the community through theater. He worked with beautiful people and loved beautiful things.

Lou served his country during the Korean War in the United States Army which was followed by an education with the prestigious Screen Actors Studio. He was known for numerous appearances in movies, tv and on stage and for his dedication to the entertainment industry throughout his career.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Jeanne Price Criscuolo; children, Gregory Criscuolo, Maria Criscuolo Day (Gregory), Neil Criscuolo (Patty), Michael Criscuolo and Carla Criscuolo; granddaughter, Lily Day; grandson, Gian Carlo Criscuolo; step children, Melanie Ballard (David), Don Paul Miller III, Alice Morgan Sherwood and Mary Anita Morgan; brothers, Fred Criscuolo (Jean), Pat Criscuolo (Lydia), and Sal Criscuolo (Rose); and numerous other loving family members and friends.

A memorial service will be held at 2 PM Saturday, December 20, 2014 at St. Paul Episcopal Church, 16 North 16th St. Wilmington, NC 28401. The family will gather at the Criscuolo home following the service.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Opera House Theatre Company, the Lower Cape Fear Hospice Foundation or charity of one’s choice.

Please share condolences and memories with the family at wilmingtoncares.com

Wilmington Funeral & Cremation, 1535 S. 41st Street, Wilmington NC 28403. 910.791.9099


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  • December 19, 2014
    Jennifer Friedlander says:
    Lou Criscuolo was that big , gruff teddy bear that knew exactly what he wanted and how to get it. I loved how direct and focused he was. I always appreciated his talent and desire to show off other's talent. I am soo glad I had the opportunity to know Lou and get to learn a lot from him. Lou you will be missed master showman.

  • December 18, 2014
    Brian Carter says:
    In my brief tenure with OHTC I learned a lot from many. I learned the most working on productions that Lou directed. It was fascinating to watch him work. He will be greatly missed.

  • December 16, 2014
    Kathy West says:
    Deepest sympathy

  • April 22, 2015
    William Joseph Reynolds says:
    Our deepest sympathies. The fans of 'The Edge of Night' loved both Lou and 'Danny Micelli.' I just found out, this morning, so, please forgive this tardy expression of condolence.

  • April 18, 2022
    Kat G lit a candle:
    Lit since April 18, 2022 at 4:12:50 PM