Illusionist Criss Angel May Help Bring Down Florida Landmark with a Bang

Illusionist Criss Angel is known for his eye-opening entertainment, enjoying a following of fans the world over. On July 30, he plans to come to Clearwater, Florida, to bring down the house---literally.

Clearwater, Florida, draws tourists from all over the world each year to its powdery, white Gulf coast beach. Over recent years, developers and the local government have been spending millions to renovate the face of Clearwater Beach, constructing a "Beach Walk," rebuilding parking facilities, and razing a number of aging mid-to-late twentieth century buildings along Clearwater Beach---including an Adam's Mark Hotel---to revitalize and update the beachfront with new condominiums and hotels.

Criss Angel's Feat

On July 30, Criss Angel is hoping to play a role in the Clearwater beachfront makeover process when he will try to escape from the balcony of nine-story hotel on the very brink of implosion. Angel will be tied to a middle floor's balcony of the landmark Spyglass Motel, which stands literally yards from the sand and escape to the rooftop for a helicopter flyaway just before the abandoned landmark crumbles to the ground.

Angel, Developers Must Clear Obstacles

This, however, is all subject to permits being approved for a July 30 demolition of the Spyglass Motel, as well as Angel clearing any hurdles which may still stand between him and the doomed hotel. Remaining issues include a check to ensure any and all asbestos in the Spyglass Motel has been abated. Doug Matthews, who is a spokesman for the city of Clearwater, believes it may take as few as 10 days for the developer to submit a demolition permit, have it approved, and then begin work on bringing the building down.

Criss Angel to Draw Large Audience

Assuming all legal and code issues have been resolved, Angel's feat is currently scheduled to air live on television at 10 P.M. on July 30 as he attempts his incredible escape from the Spyglass Motel. Hundreds are expected to stand at a distance from the building as it comes down and Angel performs his illusion.