NORTH CONWAY, New Hampshire — January events at Cranmore are taking a turn towards the absurd with the addition of a new evening comedy show kicking off the Martin Luther King holiday ski weekend at North Conway’s long-running ski area.

On Friday, January 18, 2008, doors open at 7pm for a special 8pm performance by three popular Boston-area comics, Michael Coleman, Eddie Bratz and Michael Viselli. In addition to the comedy show, the evening will feature a retro dance party complete with disco ball, lights and a visit from Elvis. Guests wearing 70s or 80s retro-wear will be eligible to receive prizes. A cash bar will be available at Zip’s Pub.

Michael Viselli has performed in venues in and around the Hub such as Nick’s Comedy Stop and the Comedy Connection and is well-known for his tribute to the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley. Eddie Bratz has played popular NYC comedy clubs such as Dangerfield’s and Caroline’s. Those who grew up in Boston may remember the popular WZLX radio show, Charles Lacquidara’s Big Mattress, which featured the work of Michael Coleman.

Also on January 18, Cranmore will offer a complimentary lift ticket for anyone dressed as Elvis Presley to pay tribute to what would’ve been the King’s 73rd birthday (he was born on January 8, 1935).

Tickets to the show are only $10 in advance or $12 at the door. To reserve in advance, call 603-356-5544 ext. 227.

Cranmore Comedy Night is just one of many fun and festive events taking place at Cranmore in January. The 4th Annual Great Penguin Race, benefiting the Mount Washington Valley Children’s Museum, takes place on Sunday, January 6th.

January 12 celebrates Cranmore’s environmentally friendly policies on Biodiesel Day. Drivers of hybrid vehicles will be rewarded with a complimentary lift ticket and VIP parking. Plus visitors can learn more about eco-friendly fuel and how it’s used at Cranmore.

The Comedy Night isn’t the only newcomer to the special event lineup. Cranmore also recently announced a series of Meister Hut Wine Dinners with the first slated for Sat. January 19, 2008. Reservations for those dinners, also taking place on Feb. 16 and March 1, may also be made by calling 603-356-5544 ext. 227.

Finally, the fun continues with Cranapalooza, a nighttime festival of fun featuring night skiing, snow tubing, family entertainment and live music, every Saturday night from 2-9pm.

For more information on these events and all the goings-on at Cranmore Mountain, visit www.cranmore.com or call 1-800-SUN-N-SKI.