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Mind magic: Criss Angel, above, performs a limited exclusive engagement of his new production "Criss Angel Mindfreak Live!," 6 and 9:30 p.m. Jan. 20, State Theatre Center for the Arts, Easton. The show is based on "Mindfreak" on A&E, viewed by more than 100 million viewers per season in more than 90 countries. Ticket holders can expect to witness 90 minutes of spectacular original illusions with a cast of multi-talented artists, original music, lighting and special effects. Angel has family ties to the Lehigh Valley, including cousin Billy Kounoupis, owner of Billy's Downtown Diners in Bethlehem and Allentown. Early in his career, Angel was mentored by Easton's Lou Reda and was previously on the State Theatre stage in 1991 for a promotional photo shoot. Because of the intense effects, the show is recommended for ages 13 and up. Tickets: State Theatre Box Office, 453 Northampton St., Easton; statetheatre.org, 1-800-999-STATE, 610-252-3132

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PHOTO BY BUD NEALY

Expanding jazz: Expansions, the Dave Liebman group, returns to the Rodale Community Room for "Jazz Upstairs," 7:30 p.m. Jan. 16, Miller Symphony Hall, Allentown. Expansions, above, is: pianist Bobby Avey, reedman Matt Vashlishan, drummer Alex Ritz, bassist Tony Marino and Liebman on soprano saxophone. The repertoire traverses elements of free jazz and re-arrangements of standards infused with complex time signatures and harmonies. Liebman received first place in the Downbeat and Jazz Times Critic's Poll in 2011, when he also received the NEA Masters of Jazz Award. He received a Grammy nomination for Best Jazz Solo (1998). Tickets: Miller Symphony Hall Box Office, 23 N. Sixth St., Allentown; allentownsymphony.org; 610-432-6715

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Science by Sid: "Sid the Science Kid," a popular PBS television series from The Jim Henson Company, comes to life as a musical on stage, 1 and 4 p.m. Jan. 18, State Theatre Center for the Arts, Easton. Sid, above, along with May, Gabriela, Gerald and Teacher Susie, are brought to life by the artists of Jim Henson's Creature Shop. The audience will feel like a part of the show with lots of interactive games and sing-along songs. Youths attending will explore their five senses through fun games and experiments and by asking curious questions and finding fascinating answers. Teacher Susie keeps the music flowing as the students explore the world around them. Tickets: State Theatre Box Office, 453 Northampton St., Easton; statetheatre.org, 1-800-999-STATE, 610-252-3132.

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