Criss Angel turns Vegas into a sci-fi dream. I love the 50+ signature illusions and the fact that many effects come from his TV world plus live surprises you do not see every time. I also like the production muscles: lighting, video, pyro, and sound are built into the magic, not used as decoration. One possible drawback: the show includes mature themes and language, plus a decent amount of stage talk that can feel a bit different from the pure, nonstop trick expectation.

This is staged at Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino, so you can make it part of an easy night on the Strip instead of adding another complicated detour. The show runs 75 minutes, and that’s a good length if you want big spectacle without committing to a long evening. Admission starts at age 12, and it is not meant for kids under 10.

Key things to know before you go

• 50+ iconic illusions from Criss Angel’s Mindfreak universe, plus live-ready moments presented for the first time
• 3D and video mapping used during the performance for stage visuals that change with the action
• Pyro, advanced lighting, and heavy sound that make the effects feel more like a show-and-a-half than a magic set
• An interactive lobby area before the curtain, designed to pull you into the world right away
• Mature content and language: recommended for ages 12+ with parental discretion advised

Criss Angel MINDFREAK at Planet Hollywood: what this 75-minute show really feels like

Criss Angel MINDFREAK is not the type of magic show where you sit quietly, watch a few effects, and clap at the end. The whole idea is to hit you with sound, visuals, and theatrical pacing so quickly that you stop focusing on how a single trick might work. In other words, it’s more like a high-tech stage production that happens to include illusions.

The setting matters too. Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino is a classic Strip hub with plenty around it, and the show is built into that energy. You’re not walking into a tiny theater tucked away from everything. You’re stepping into a full Vegas environment, then shifting gears into a tightly scripted performance.

The runtime is 75 minutes, which is great for Vegas. You get a complete, story-driven show arc, but you still have time to grab dinner afterward or fit in another attraction.

Ticket value at about $105: where the money goes

At $105 per person, you’re paying for more than a performer and a few stage props. This price makes sense if what you want is a production that leans hard on modern show technology—video, lighting, pyro, and sound—and uses those tools as part of the magic itself.

Also, the show is built around volume. You are getting more than 50 iconic illusions. That’s one reason people rate this as more of an experience than a short set. Even if you do not recognize every effect from TV, the variety is there, and the sequencing keeps you from settling into a single mode of watching.

One note on expectations: MINDFREAK is designed to be a full show experience, not only trick after trick. There is more stage talk than you might expect if you’ve only seen clipped performances online. That talk includes personal and charitable themes, which can be meaningful, but it also changes the tempo.

From the interactive lobby to the first illusion

Your night starts before the main stage moment. The show includes an interactive lobby area, so you do not just arrive, find your seat, and wait for the magic to begin. This pre-show space is designed to get you in the mood immediately, which matters because the production uses visuals and pacing that build on your attention from the first minutes.

Think of it as setup with purpose. When the lobby experience flows into the show, it helps make the transitions feel less like commercials and more like one continuous event. It’s also where you’ll likely spot the production style: the kind of show that uses video effects and staging cues rather than relying only on hands, cards, and lighting.

Then the main performance begins, and the tone ramps quickly. You’ll be dealing with a live show rhythm where timing is everything. If you’re the type who likes to figure things out in your head, you can try. Just know the show is not built to pause and let you analyze. It’s built to keep moving.

Lighting, video, pyro, and sound: the tech that drives the spectacle

This is where MINDFREAK separates itself from a basic magic program. The show uses sophisticated, cutting-edge lighting and video, plus pyro and sound effects that work like a soundtrack for the illusions. When done well, that combination makes the magic feel bigger than what a stage prop could do alone.

Another big piece is the use of 3D and video mapping. Video mapping is when visuals are projected in a way that matches stage surfaces and angles, so the image seems to belong to the space instead of floating on a screen. In this show, that matters because it changes what you think you are seeing while the action happens—like your eyes are being guided along with the story.

Pyro is also not random theatrics. You should expect it to be tied to key moments. That’s why the timing feels deliberate. The show wants the sensory impact to land at the same time the trick lands.

If you’re curious about how much tech can fit into live magic without turning into a gimmick, this is a good place to test that idea.

More than 50 illusions plus first-time live moments

The show promises more than 50 of Criss Angel’s most iconic illusions. That volume is part of the appeal. You’re not watching the same handful of effects with different lighting. You’re seeing a variety of styles, which helps keep your attention high.

There’s also a point worth knowing if you’ve followed Criss Angel through TV. Many of the illusions come from his hit series Mindfreak, and the production includes specials that premiere live for the first time. Even if you’re not a superfan, this keeps the show from feeling like a repeat performance designed only for people who already know the material.

One of the smartest parts of that format is that the show doesn’t just display effects—it builds momentum. After a few moments, you start to sense the pacing strategy: fast enough to keep surprises coming, structured enough that the production still feels like it has a beginning, middle, and end.

When stage talk enters the act: mature content and what to expect

Criss Angel MINDFREAK includes mature content and language. It’s recommended for ages 12 and up, and parental discretion is advised. The show is also not suitable for children under 10.

Beyond the rating, there’s another practical question: is this a show that stays purely in the realm of illusion? Based on what’s been shared by people who’ve attended, there’s more talking on stage than some audiences expect. That talk can include personal details and charity-focused themes tied to cancer patients.

If that kind of content would distract you, you’ll want to mentally prepare for a mixed format: illusions plus personal and charitable messaging. If you’re okay with a show that uses stage time for more than misdirection, you’ll likely find it easier to settle in.

Bottom line: this is Vegas magic with an edge. Plan accordingly.

Seating, timing, and how to fit it into a Vegas evening

Your time here is 75 minutes, so the easiest plan is to keep the rest of your evening simple. Arrive early enough to get through the pre-show flow without stress, because the lobby portion is part of the experience.

For timing, show start times vary, so pick a slot that matches your energy. If you’re also walking the Strip, I like choosing a time that does not trap you into rushing. Las Vegas days add up fast. You want to feel awake for the production’s sensory moments—especially the video and sound-heavy parts.

Afterward, you’re at Planet Hollywood, which makes the transition to dinner or a nightcap straightforward. You’re not waiting on a long commute or trying to coordinate transport across half the city while you’re still amped from the show.

If you’re going with friends, it also helps to agree on pace ahead of time. Some people want to analyze tricks immediately after each effect; others just want the spectacle. Either is fine. Just decide what kind of night you want before you sit down.

Who should book MINDFREAK, and who should skip it

This show fits best if you want big-stage production value from a live performer and you’re open to a tech-heavy style of magic. If you love modern effects, video mapping, and the feeling that the show is designed like a concert production, you’ll probably have a strong time.

It also works well for older teens and adults who enjoy a performer with a reputation and a distinct style. The age guidance is clear: 12 and up for attendance, and not for kids under 10.

Should you skip it? If you’re looking for a kid-friendly show that stays strictly in playful illusion territory, this is not that. If you want a show with minimal stage talk and a high ratio of trick-to-trick time, you might be happier with a more traditional magic program instead.

Also consider your tolerance for mature language. The show includes language and mature themes, so think about what feels comfortable for your group.

FAQ

How long is the Criss Angel MINDFREAK show at Planet Hollywood?

The show is 75 minutes long.

Where does the show take place?

It takes place at Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

How much are tickets?

The price listed is $105 per person.

What age is allowed for MINDFREAK?

Admission is recommended for ages 12 and up, and you must be at least 12 years old to attend.

Is the show suitable for young children?

No. It is not suitable for children under 10.

Does the show include mature content?

Yes. It contains mature content and language.

Is it wheelchair accessible?

Yes. The activity is wheelchair accessible.

Does it involve 3D or video mapping?

Yes. The performance includes 3D and video mapping.

Is the ticket refundable if plans change?

No. This activity is non-refundable.

Should you book this MINDFREAK show?

If you want a Las Vegas magic show with high-tech staging—video, 3D, pyro, and sound—MINDFREAK is a strong bet. The price feels more justified when you think of it as a full production built around 50+ illusions and a more theatrical format than a basic trick show.

I’d book it if you’re traveling with adults or teens who can handle mature language and you’re okay with a bit more stage talking than straight illusion-only pacing. I’d skip it if you’re bringing younger kids, or if you want a simpler, purely family-friendly magic evening.