SPREADING SOME MAGIC

Criss Angel continues to leave his mark on Southern Nevada

By Heather Turk

Southern Nevada is becoming a mecca for Criss Angel fans, as the celebrated illusionist is constantly giving his “Loyal” fanbase more reasons to visit.

In July, Angel resumed performances of his Las Vegas production, “MINDFREAK,” at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Not just a magic show, the immersive experience takes fans into the world of the most watched magician in television and internet history. From the moment guests step into the theater’s lobby, they’ll be surrounded by memorabilia and honors from Angel’s career as well as plenty of cool photo opportunities. Then, once they’re inside the theater, they can go onstage to try on the straitjacket Angel will escape from later that night while dangling above the audience by his feet. The jaw-dropping production features some of the most revolutionary illusions ever performed, including Angel’s signature illusion where he walks down a ladder parallel to the floor. Fans can see even more items on display from Angel’s personal collection at his new restaurant, Cablp (Criss Angel’s Breakfast, Lunch & Pizza). Located in Overton, Nevada, near Valley of Fire State Park, the casual eatery opened this past summer and offers an extensive menu of tasty dishes — everything from East Coast-style pizza to homemade chicken parmesan. No visit is complete, however, without trying a gourmet Italian ice for dessert. While it’s not uncommon to see Angel’s brother, Costa Sarantakos, at the restaurant, sometimes even Angel stops by to levitate an order to someone’s table!

Proving magicians always have something up their sleeves, Angel’s also been hard at work on his latest Vegas venture: “Mr. Smiles & Molly.” In collaboration with entertainment visionary Franco Dragone (Cirque du Soleil’s “O”), the surreal pre-nightclub experience will be a bold fusion between the worlds of electronic music and theater and is scheduled to open soon. crissangel.com

Cablp celebrates the memory of Angel’s father, John Sarantakos, who owned restaurants in New York for years “MINDFREAK” is a fully immersive magic concert unlike anything else in live entertainment