on A&E. There are more than a
dozen custom motorcycles, huge
torture devices from escapes and
his very first costume from his
off-Broadway show. Hundreds of
pictures of international superstars adorn the walls, featuring
shots from meet and greets
following performances. You can
see a virtual tour here: https://
crissangel.com/mindfreak-live.
There is certainly plenty to take
in, and when the doors open the
anticipation is at fever pitch and
people can’t wait to take their
seats.
The theatre is HUGE. I remembered it being big but it seemed
even bigger. The production style
of the proscenium arch is reminiscent to me of Phantom of the
Opera in London’s West End, and
this is the focal point for the 1600
people in attendance, which just
so happens to be full capacity on
a Wednesday night.
As you wait for the show to start
a video is playing on a huge projection screen documenting the
evolution of Criss’ career so far.
12
You see him very early on in his
journey performing illusions such
as a Met Trunk in very modest
and downbeat venues. You see
film of him perfecting his dove
act in its embryonic stages, and
footage of accidents that have
happened during live shows.
The audience really gets a feel
for how long and hard Criss has
been working to get to this point
today.
Before Criss appears on stage
there are a couple of warm up
artists in the true tradition of
Cirque du Soleil. Maestro is a
bumbling magician, assisted by
Fifi, who believes he is the world’s
greatest magician. There are
many laughs and this gets you
in the mood for the start of the
show.
The curtain raises to reveal a 1’
thick platform in the center of the
stage, well away from any backdrops or scenery, and you can
completely see there is no base...
NOTHING. In a split second and a
puff of smoke, Criss Angel seemingly materializes. “Las Vegas! Are
Photos: Top - Motorcyle appearance. Below - Laser levitation