The Liars Bench Gazette

Gary & Liars Bench Make Cover of Smoky Mountain News!

2012-02-29T22:56:00.001-05:00

Go here: http://www.smokymountainnews.com/index.php
Thank you for being fans of The Liars Bench.

Please email Quintin Ellison (quintin@smokymountainnews.com)
and Scott McLeod (info@smokymountainnews.com)
and thank them for publishing Gary and the Liars Bench in the Smoky Mountain News.
Coming Thursday March 15, 7:00 pm at the Mountain Heritage Center the first of "The Balsam Chronicles", a series of ground-breakingculturally and historically significant shows about Jackson and the surrounding counties of Western North Carolina.

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The Mountain Heritage Center at WCU:828.227.7129

Full House at Liars Bench "Coy" Encore Show

2012-02-28T00:47:00.001-05:00

Last Thursday evening at the Mountain Heritage Center was magical. It was the Liars Bench second show for February and an encore production of "Coy," a dramatic monologue written by Gary Carden.

A number of notables were there including Marvin Cole, a former classmate of Gary's, who most of us know as "Mark Twain."

Gary acknowledged Laura Chew in the audience, who will be starring in Gary's forthcoming play "Mother Jones." Gary also mentioned that Frank Lee (Freight Hoppers) of Bryson City had finished the music for the play "Outlander" which will be starting production at the Parkway Playhouse in Burnsville this June. William Ritter will be one of the actors in the production of "Outlander."

Paul Iarussi, our famous claw-hammer guitar player and old-time singer kicked the show off with "Fields of Brown."

Lloyd Arneach, internationally known Cherokee story teller held the audience spell-bound with "How the Milky way came to be."

Ken Beck, from Sylva, played and sang to the enjoyment of the audience.

William Ritter played a couple of versions of "Bonaparte's Retreat," a sad fiddle tune played by a Haywood County man before one of Kirk's raiders shot him and made famous by Charles Frazier's book (1997) and film "Cold Mountain" (2003).

Tom Dewees did a magnificent job as "Coy"

and the audience rewarded Tom with a standing ovation.

All the performers, Karen, William, Lloyd, Ken, and Paul came back again much to the delight of the audience.

Gary sent everybody home reminding them of the first production of "The Balsam Chronicles" coming in March.

Coming in March, the first of "The Balsam Chronicles", a series of ground-breakingculturally and historically significant shows about Jackson and the surrounding counties of Western North Carolina.
Why did Charlie Wright risk his life to save Gus Beaty from plunging two thousand feet to his death on Whiteside Mountain? Could a man unjustly accused, convicted, and executed be exonerated and brought back to life by modern (1880s) medical science? Did a Jackson County medical doctor actually invigorate elderly men with a special surgical procedure decades before Viagra? Please stay tuned and come to the next Liars Bench on Thursday March 15 at 7:00 pm at the Mountain Heritage Center and we guarantee you will be amazed at all the interesting things that have gone on in your back yard--brought to you by Western North Carolina's only live, authentic traditional Southern Appalachian storytelling, music, poetry, drama, and folk arts presentation:

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The Mountain Heritage Center at WCU:828.227.7129

Dramatic Performance Of “Coy” To Be Centerpiece Of Encore Liars Bench Benefit Show

2012-02-21T11:33:00.001-05:00

TheLiars Bench

Storiesof the Southern Appalachians

“A Live, AuthenticTraditional Southern Appalachian Storytelling, Music, Poetry, Drama,and Folk Arts Presentation”

Sylva February 21, 2012—Gary Cardenof The Liars Bench, a two-year old program featuring authentictraditional Southern Appalachian storytelling, music, poetry, anddrama, announced an encore show Thursday February 23 at 7:00 pm atWCUs Mountain Heritage Center to follow the successful February 16Liars Bench performance of “Coy”. There will be anadmission charge of $10.00 per person to cover the costs of showproduction.

“We have done over twenty, freeperformances in Sylva and Cullowhee, and in addition, we havetraveled to other locations such as Andrews, Franklin, andWaynesville,” said Carden, the founder and Artistic Director of TheLiars Bench. “The show has become quite popular and part of theprogram's appeal is due to the fact that admission at all of the CityLights and Mountain Heritage Center performances have been free.Customarily, we 'pass the hat' at each performance in order to give atoken payment to the performers. However, in order to stabilize ourfinances we have decided to charge admission for this special “Coy”program.

Carden readily admits that The LiarsBench programs took an unexpected turn, both in terms of purposeand popularity. “At first, I simply wanted an opportunity to tellstories. However, when local musicians and poets agreed to perform, Irealized that perhaps The Liars Bench was an opportunity to domore than merely entertain the audience. Gradually, the show hasbecome a means of showcasing Appalachian culture and presenting itwith integrity and authenticity. With the assistance of the MountainHeritage Center, we are in the process of developing a series ofprograms called “The Balsam Chronicles” which are based on thehistory and folklore of the region.”

Recently, The Liars Bench, inconjunction with the Mountain Heritage Center, developed a grantproposal that was funded by the Jackson County Arts Council. “Thisgrant will give us the resources to develop programs that deal withtopics such as Dr. John R. Brinkley, the hanging of Jack Lambert, andthe historical basis for the belief that Abraham Lincoln was bornhere. We plan to do this with storytelling, music, poetry and drama.”

During the past year, Carden hasdesigned and directed a series of shows that dealt with Cherokeehistory and culture; religious music, Jack Tales, and myths andlegends. After a show from last October was recently featured on theregional television program Life in the Carolinas, both theperformers and the staff of the Liars Bench became convincedthat the show should move toward becoming a significant voice indefining and preserving the region's culture.

In addition to Liars Benchregulars, such as Lloyd Arneach, the Cherokee storyteller; PaulIarussi, claw-hammer guitar specialist; William Ritter, vocalist andmusician; Karen Barnes, musician and Eric Young (mandolin andguitar); the February 23 performance will feature a play, “Coy,”written by Gary Carden and performed by Tom Dewees. Advance ticketsare $10.00 and are currently on sale at City Lights Bookstore(828.586.9499). Encore performance starts at 7:00 pm. For additionalinformation, call the Mountain Heritage Center at 828.227.7129.

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The Mountain Heritage Center at WCU:828.227.7129

###

Coming in March, the first of "The Balsam Chronicles", a series of culturally and historically significant shows about Jackson and the surrounding counties of Western North Carolina. Whether its the short, blue-eyed men who were here when the Cherokee came to the Southern Appalachians, a Jackson County medical doctor who invigorated elderly men decades before Viagra, or the near-impossible rescue of a man who fell off Whiteside Mountain and came within a hair of plunging two thousand feet to his death by a true Jackson County hero who was married to "Kidder Cole", you will be amazed at all the interesting things that have gone on in your back yard!

Successful "Coy" Liars Bench Delights Audience

2012-02-20T00:31:00.000-05:00

Friends, we hope you were at the Mountain Heritage Center last Thursday night because The Liars Bench Bunch out performed themselves.

Paul Iarussi and Eric Young opened the show with an old-time song called "The Grandfather Clock." Paul had been playing the song for years as an instrumental and just learned the lyrics the night of the show.

Lloyd Arneach told a very scary story about the "Great Leech", a terrible monster in the Valley River near Murphy.

Rising Liars Bench star William Ritter sang a ghost story ballad called "Lady Margaret", much to the audience's approval.

Karen Barnes, accompanied by Dave McGill, sang a great up-tempo jazzy-type song called "Satan is Busy in Knoxville."

The centerpiece of last Thursday's Liars Bench (and the encore show to come next Thursday February 23) was "Coy",

a dramatic monologue played to great applause by Haywood County dramatist Tom Dewees, about a young mountain man faced with his grandfather's (and his own) mortality and the magical way that he deals with it.

Tom Dewees played a very convincing "Coy." The audience loved him.

Lloyd Arneach told a story about Chief Ten Bears on the set of "Dances With Wolves" and the Native-American actors who were the first modern Indians to "ride with the buffalo."

William and Eric each played a solo.

Karen Barnes sang a Stephen Foster song "Hard Times."

Friends, we want to thank each and everyone of you who were able to make it out to the Mountain Heritage Center last Thursday night. Please tell your family, friends, and acquaintances about the Liars Bench "Coy" Encore show this coming Thursday February 23 at 7:00 pm at the Mountain Heritage Center. Tickets are now available at City Lights Bookstore in Sylva and will be available at the door the night of the show.

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The Mountain Heritage Center at WCU:828.227.7129

City Lights Bookstore 586.9499

Coming in March "The Balsam Chronicles", the beginning of a series of culturally and historically significant shows about Jackson and the surrounding counties of Western North Carolina. You will be amazed at all the interesting things that have gone on in your back yard!

2012-02-14T23:09:00.000-05:00

Liars Bench Fans listen up; besides City Lights, tickets for each show
(February 16 & 23) will be available at the door. Come early for a
good seat. First show is this Thursday February 16, 7:00 pm at the
Mountain Heritage Center.

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The Mountain Heritage Center at WCU:828.227.7129

City Lights Bookstore 586.9499

TWO BIG LIARS BENCH SHOWS!

2012-01-29T23:30:00.001-05:00

The Liars Bench presents Storytelling, Oldtime Music, and Dr. Gary Carden's dramatic monologue "Coy," the poignant story of a young man facing his grandfather's and his own mortality; played by Tom DeWees.
First performance: Thursday February 16, 2012 @ 7:00 pm at WCUs Mountain Heritage Center.
Second performance: Thursday February 23, 2012 @ 7:00 pm also at the Mountain Heritage Center.

Admission Only $10.00!

Advance ticket sales at City Lights Bookstore, 3 East Jackson Street, Sylva and are limited to 92 seats for each performance. Call 828.586.9499.
Liars Bench member artists Gary Carden, Lloyd Arneach, Paul Iarussi, William Ritter, and others bring you Southern Appalachian Culture, History, and Entertainment at its Best.

Hurry, Get Your Tickets Today!

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The Mountain Heritage Center at WCU:828.227.7129

"Wild Mountain Music" Liars Bench Show Blows The Audience Away

2012-01-22T22:39:00.001-05:00

Last Thursday night at WCUs Mountain Heritage Center the Liars Bench Show member artists Gary Carden, Lloyd Arneach, Paul Iarussi; special guest artists Laurence Holden and EricYoung; plus an “exciting collection of new entertainers” (including multi-talented William Ritter) performedSouthern Appalachian story, song, and poetry on one star-studded stage.

The audience sang "Happy Birthday" to a visibly touched Gary.

Eric Young and Paul Iarussi kicked off the show with a duet.

Lloyd Arneach, famous Cherokee storyteller, told a story about a giant hawk who took children from their villages. The Cherokee prayed to the Creator and He destroyed the giant hawk in a furious fire/storm which created the balds we know today.

Laurence Holden from Rabun County Georgia performed "Shall We Gather at the River," a poem about the Chattahoochee with Marie Dunkle accompanying him on cello.

William Ritter played one of Aunt Samantha's (Jackson County native) songs called "Goin' to Italy" (Swain County).

Jill Gottesman, who works at the Wilderness Society office in Sylva, performed "I Truly Understand," an old time tune of 'floating verse.'

Gary "depressed the audience a little bit" with a story about "Rogues Cove" (Rhodes Cove) were he grew up and his Grandmother 'training' him to keep her out of the nursing home.

Eric Young and the "Youngin's" played their second Liars Bench (first was at Rickmans store in December of 2011).

Liz Nance, from Bryson City, performed "Enjoyed the Ride," a song about teenagers and getting into trouble.

Marie Dunkle performed a Scottish jig as a Birthday tribute to Scottish poet Robert Burns.

Paul Iarussi took us home with "Pictures from life's other side."

Gary told us about his five plays to be produced at HART in Waynesvile later this month.

Liars Bench audiences are the best in the world.

We at the Liars Bench want to thank you for supporting us--WNCs only live, authentic traditional Southern Appalachian storytelling, music, poetry, drama, folk arts presentation.
Coming up, thenext presentation of The Liars Bench at WCUs MountainHeritage Center will be Thursday February 16 at 7 pm. As a center piece of the show look for one of Gary's plays "Coy" to be presented. Coming soon“The Balsam Chronicles.”

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Bodine says "hey, hope to see you'ins soon."
More photos on FaceBook shortly.

"Wild Mountain Music" at WCUs Mountain Heritage Center

2012-01-12T22:11:00.000-05:00

TheLiars Bench

Storiesof the Southern Appalachians

“A Live, AuthenticTraditional Southern Appalachian Storytelling, Music, Poetry, Drama,and Folk Arts Presentation”

Ladies and Gents, as promised we're back, and in a BIG way. On ThursdayJanuary 19 at 7:00 pm TheLiars Bench presents “Wild Mountain Music” at WCUsMountain Heritage Center auditorium. Member artists Gary Carden,Lloyd Arneach, Barbara Duncan, Paul Iarussi; special guest artistsLaurence Holden and Eric Young; plus an “exciting collection of new entertainers” performing Southern Appalachian story, song, andpoetry on one stage.

Regular cast members include GaryCarden, Lloyd Arneach, Paul Iarussi, Barbara Duncan, Dave Waldrop,and the show’s mascot Bodine. The Liars Bench recognizesestablished regional artists and performers and encourages new talentalso.

“The Liars Bench is a uniqueblend of culturally accurate mountain Americana with traditionalSouthern Appalachian entertainment for everyone. We attempt to treatAppalachian culture with integrity and authenticity and to be anaccurate reflection of the Southern Highlanders and their ways. Nomatter how successful the show becomes I want people to know that TheLiars Bench is an honest rendering of Appalachian culture andtradition” said Carden.

ErnestineUpchurch, a local proponent of Southern Appalachian culture andfolkways has said about the Liars Bench, “I think that the LiarsBench presents a real variety of life and folklore in the mountainsas we knew and enjoyed it. It’s truly about mountain people andtheir ways.” The Liars Bench was created in the earlysummer of 2010 by Dr. Gary Carden to promote Southern Appalachianstorytelling, music, poetry, drama, and folk arts.

Thenext presentation of The Liars Bench at WCUs MountainHeritage Center will be Thursday February 16 at 7 pm. Coming soon“The Balsam Chronicles.”

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http://hollernotes.blogspot.com/

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The Mountain Heritage Center at WCU:828.227.7129

Liars Bench Show To Be Broadcast on Regional TV!

2012-01-08T17:29:00.000-05:00

Folks, we have learned at the Liars Bench Show that "Life in the Carolinas", hosted by Carl White will broadcast a complete show based on the filming and interviews Mr. White did at our October MHC show. This special segment of "Life in the Carolinas" will be broadcast on WMYA "My 40" (Greenville-Spartanburg-Asheville) on Sunday January 15 @ 2:00 pm. Besides the show footage you will enjoy the interviews that Mr. White did with Gary, Lloyd, and Barbara.
Our next live show will be at WCUs Mountain Heritage Center Thursday January 19, 2012 @ 7:00 pm. More on the performers and theme to come. Thank you for supporting The Liars Bench Show, WNCs only live, authentic traditional Southern Applachian storytelling, mujsic, poetry, drama, folk arts presentation!

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The Mountain Heritage Center at WCU: 828.227.7129

On the Road with The Liars Bench Show!

2011-12-09T00:58:00.000-05:00

Just a reminder Liars Bench fans; Gary Carden, Lloyd Arneach, William Ritter, Eric Young, Dave Waldrop, and at least one mystery guest star will be playing Rickman's Store Friday night December 9 at 6pm . Come early for a good seat.

Where's Rickman's Store you say? From Franklin, go north on Hwy 28 for approximately 7 miles until you come to the Cowee school, turn right there. Rickman's is just past the school on the right.

This will be the last Liars Bench Show of 2011. See you there!

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Land Trust for the Little Tennessee (Rickman's Store): 828.524.2711

"Legendary Hunters and Hounds"--What a Great Show!

2011-11-27T12:07:00.001-05:00

Folks, if you couldn't make it last Thursday evening (November 17) to The Liars Bench at the Mountain Heritage Center, you really missed a great show.

Gary started things off with various announcements including the soon-to-be production of his new play "Outlander" at the Parkway Playhouse in Burnsville, NC; the soon-to-be produced series of Liars Bench shows "The Balsam Chronicles" in 2012; and the re-organization of The Liars Bench to be able to creatively and professionally reach a larger audience here in the Southeast.

Gary mentioned at least one topic of "The Balsam Chronicles" with Jackson County native Dr. John R. Brinkley ("the goat gland man") as the focus of one show with many other interesting, educational, and entertaining show topics being worked on by The Liars Bench staff. Please stay tuned as "The Balsam Chronicles" will most likely put The Liars Bench on the 'map' regionally, if not nationally, and your continued participation in the Liars Bench phenomenon will help to make southern Appalachian history.

Paul Iarussi opened with a great number, "Lonesome Road Blues" that really got folks toes-a-tappin'.

Gary told the story of "Honest John", a Jackson County bear from the early twentieth century, who was a 'gentleman' bear, if not quite a scholar.

In segment one, Bob Plott gave a brief history of one Plott brother, Johannes, making it to America (the other brother who started the journey died and was buried at sea) with five hunting dogs, which in a little over two hundred years would become North Carolina's official state dog and famous the world over.

While Bob was sharing with us his history, David Brewin's Plott hound "Nanny" became amorous with Bodine and attempted a liaison. The crowd loved it.

Alas, poor Nanny and her advances were not returned. She eventually gave up on Bodine and lay down on stage.

William Ritter played and sang "Jack Diamond" on the fiddle and sang "Wild Boar in the Woods" a capella--a truly scary song about hunting a fierce wild boar with a wooden knife.

In the second part of the show Gary told the ancient legends of the "8th Clan" of the Cherokee and "Gall Place", the sacred lake of rejuvenation for wounded animals in Cherokee country.

Barbara sang a different version of "Wild Boar in the Woods."

Barbara and William sang and played a song about a crafty fox in the woods which everyone loved.

Bob Plott told several humorous hunting stories that involved his ancestors.

Paul Iarussi finished up the show with "Old Slew-foot."

We want to thank each and every one of you for supporting The Liars Bench show and look forward to seeing you at our next presentation when The Liars Bench goes "on the road" over to Macon County at Rickman's Store on Friday December 9 at 6pm. Please come at least a half hour early for a good seat.
To get to Rickman's Store call for directions at The Land Trust for the Little Tennessee at 828.524.2711 or
drive to Rickman's Store which is located on Cowee Creek Road just past the old Cowee School, just off of Hwy 28 (Bryson City Rd.) approxmately six (6) miles north of Franklin, NC. If you're headed north from Franklin going to Bryson City the old school and Rickman's Store will be on your right.
You can get more helpful information at: http://www.rickmanstore.com/home

Thanks again folks. You're what makes the Liars Bench the success it has become and reminds everybody involved with the show that Southern Appalachian audiences are the greatest and that its all worth the sacrifice. Thank you for believing in The Liars Bench.

More pictures soon on Facebook and an update on the creative process used to produce "The Balsam Chronicles."

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The Mountain Heritage Center at WCU: 828.227.7129

Land Trust for the Little Tennessee (Rickman's Store): 828.524.2711

"Legendary Hunters & Hounds of the Great Smokies" to play on The Liars Bench

2011-11-12T22:30:00.001-05:00

Folks, have we got a treat for you. Coming next Thursday November 17 at 7pm at the Mountain Heritage Center, The Liars Bench presents "Legendary Hunters & Hounds of the Great Smokies." Our star member artists Gary Carden, Barbara Duncan, Paul Iarussi, Dave Waldrop; guest artists William Ritter and Liz Nance; and a special guest artist, Bob Plott with one of his famous Plott Hounds will perform southern Appalachian hunting tales in story and song on one stage.

"We've been planning this show for over a year and look forward to every Liars Bench fan who can make it that night to be entertained and educated with The Liars Bench unique perspective on Southern Appalachian culture and history" said public relations/publicity director Carl Iobst.

Regular cast members include Gary Carden, Lloyd Arneach, Paul Iarussi, Barbara Duncan, Dave Waldrop, and the show’s mascot Bodine. The Liars Bench recognizes established regional artists and performers and encourages new talent also.

Carden started The Liars Bench back in 2010 as a unique blend of culturally accurate mountain Americana to promote Southern Appalachian storytelling, music, poetry, drama, and folk arts. Since then everyone working on The Liars Bench has continued to treat Appalachian culture with integrity and authenticity and to present an accurate reflection of the Southern Highlanders and their ways.

The next presentation of The Liars Bench will be at Rickman's Store in Macon County on Friday December 9 at 6 pm.

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http://www.facebook.com/liarsbenchbunch/

http://twitter.com/#!/TheLiarsBench
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The Mountain Heritage Center at WCU: 828.227.7129

The Liars Bench To Be Broadcast on "Life in the Carolinas"

2011-10-24T02:00:00.000-04:00

Folks, Thursday night's Liars Bench show was the tops.

Gary, Paul, Lloyd, and Barbara were there and the audience roared their approval for each and every one.

Guest artists Liz and A.J. Nance entertained with original songs about the mountains.

If you are on The Liars Bench email list and you read this blog on a regular basis then you pretty well knew who of our member artists were going to be there and that it was going to be another great Liars Bench show.

What you didn't know was that "Life in the Carolinas" host Carl White and a film crew from Western Carolina University were going to be there (and were) to film The Liars Bench for a mid-to-late November air date on the Charlotte based show.

The last word that the staff of The Liars Bench Gazette got was that The Liars Bench was slated for a whole broadcast of "Life in the Carolinas."
Who would have thought that at our first performance at Signature Coffee in Sylva back in June of 2010?

Thank you for your support Liars Bench fans.

We at The Liars Bench will continue to strive to bring you the most accurate cultural depiction of life in the Southern Appalachians in the most entertaining way possible.

Coming Thursday November 17, "Mighty Hunters of the Great Smokies" on WNCs only live, authentic Southern Appalachian storytelling, music, poetry, drama, folk arts presentation--The Liars Bench.

Stay tuned for further details.

"Haints, Boogers, and Belled Buzzards" Liars Bench Show at Mountain Heritage Center

2011-10-16T22:45:00.002-04:00

Liars Bench fans have we got a treat (no pun intended) for you this Thursday October 20 at 7pm at WCUs Mountain Heritage Center. Dr. Gary Carden presents "Haints, Boogers, and Belled Buzzards" on The Liars Bench, WNCs only live, authentic traditional Southern Appalachian storytelling, music, poetry, drama, folk arts presentation.
Including Carden, other member artists scheduled to perform are Lloyd Arneach, Barbara Duncan, and Paul Iarussi. Guest artist William Ritter and at least one mystery guest artist are also slated to perform Southern Appalachian 'scary' in story and song--all on one stage.

Even though it won't be a full moon outside; inside the Mountain Heritage Center there will be enough haints, boogers, belled buzzards, native-American vampires (have you ever heard the story about the Raven Mocker?), and mountain murder to satisfy just about anybody (well almost anybody's) Halloween blood lust.

As always, admission is free. Please come early for a good seat.

Bodine, Gary, and the rest of the Liars Bench Bunch will be looking for you!

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The Mountain Heritage Center at WCU: 828.227.7129

"Haints, Boogers, and Belled Buzzards" Liars Bench Show coming to the MHC October 20

2011-10-10T00:20:00.001-04:00

"Haints, Boogers, and Belled Buzzards" coming Thursday October 20 at 7pm to WCUs Mountain Heritage Center. More soon.
The Liars Bench Gazette

The Liars Bench Show at Mountain Heritage Day a Huge Success!

2011-09-27T23:55:00.000-04:00

Liars Bench Friends, just wanted you to know that the special showing of The Liars Bench at WCU's Mountain Heritage Day was a huge success!
Here's some of the shots to remind you of the fun that you had (or that you missed) this past Saturday.

Dave and Kathy overseeing the artist's 'wares' table with a full assortment of special edition Liars Bench caps.

Garfield Long was a hit with "Amazing Grace" in Cherokee.

Gary responding to an audience member.

Paul Iarussi doing his claw hammer thing!

Barbara Duncan singing a capella.

Lloyd Arneach telling his enthralling tales.

An intent and

excited, appreciative audience.

Dave Waldrop performing his unique brand of music and humor.

Gary (Oh "Great One") always wows the audience!

A pleased Gary with Bodine--partners in another incredible production of The Liars Bench.
Thank you Liars Bench Bunch Fans, thank you Media for all the great pre-publicity for The Liars Bench at WCU's Mountain Heritage Day and thank you Pam Meister and Scott Phillyaw.

The Liars Bench next presentation at WCUs Mountain Heritage Center will be Thursday October 20 at 7 pm. Stay tuned for more announcements and updates on The Liars Bench Gazette of WNC's only live, authentic southern Appalachian storytelling, music, poetry, drama, folk arts presentation--The Liars Bench!

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The Mountain Heritage Center at WCU: 828.227.7129

Special Showing of The Liars Bench at WCUs Mountain Heritage Day

2011-09-19T23:33:00.000-04:00

Folks, Just wanted you to know about the all star line-up playing at a special Liars Bench show at WCUs Mountain Heritage Day.

On Saturday September 24 at 1:30 pm Western North Carolina's own, The Liars Bench, presents "Our Mountain Heritage" at Western Carolina University's Mountain Heritage Day in the Mountain Heritage Center auditorium (WCU: 828.227.7129). Member artists include:

Gary Carden and Paul Iarussi,

Lloyd Arneach,

Barbara Duncan, and guest artists

Garfield Long

and Keith Shuler

all come together on one stage to bring the best of mountain culture to festival attendees.

Gary has told anybody who'd listen “I started The Liars Bench because I saw the culture and tradition of my people, the people of the Southern Appalachians, slipping away. I decided to showcase it, keep it alive, and introduce aspects of the old ways to people who might never have heard of it. This special Mountain Heritage Day showing of The Liars Bench may just be the ‘best of the best’ that we’ve presented before the public.”

Our regular cast members include Gary Carden, Lloyd Arneach, Paul Iarussi, Barbara Duncan, Dave Waldrop, Steve Brady, and the show’s mascot Bodine. The Liars Bench recognizes established regional artists and performers and encourages new talent also.

“This will be the fourth presentation of The Liars Bench at the Mountain Heritage Center and the show has been a crowd pleaser from the very first show in June of 2010 promoting any and all aspects of Appalachian culture. There may be ‘mystery’ guests, you’ll just have to come and see,” Gary remarked.

“The Liars Bench is a unique blend of culturally accurate mountain Americana with traditional Southern Appalachian entertainment for everyone. We attempt to treat Appalachian culture with integrity and authenticity and to be an accurate reflection of the Southern Highlanders and their ways. No matter how successful the show becomes I want people to know that The Liars Bench is an honest rendering of Appalachian culture and tradition” said Gary.

The Liars Bench was created in the early summer of 2010 by Dr. Gary Carden to promote Southern Appalachian storytelling, music, poetry, drama, and folk arts.

The Liars Bench next presentation at WCUs Mountain Heritage Center will be Thursday October 20 at 7 pm.

http://theliarsbenchgazette.blogspot.com/

http://www.facebook.com/liarsbenchbunch/

http://twitter.com/#!/TheLiarsBench

The Mountain Heritage Center at WCU: 828.227.7129

The Liars Bench--Three Home Runs in a Row!

2011-09-04T23:13:00.000-04:00

Hey Liars Bench fans. Thank all of you for coming out to the MHC last Thursday night. And for those who couldn't make it here's just a little of what you missed.

The debut of the new Liars Bench logo (Thanks to Nat & Joan Michelson);

Liars Bench caps (courtesy of Dave Waldrop);

Gary wearing new Liars Bench cap;

Dave and Paul wearing new Liars Bench caps;

Paul opened up with "Knoxville Girl";

Curtis Blanton, famed local "Porch Tales" author, told a story about three hunters in a Church attic with a half gallon of white liquor during a revival.

The audience loved Curtis' "Tootin' on Gabriel's horn!"

Barbara Duncan's always a hit!

David Hirt enthralled the audience with stories of Cullowhee from the 1950s and 1960s.

Gary modeled a new 'look'

Gary, Curtis, and David Hirt all compare their storytelling honesty level.

Gary told a story about Uncle Frank's last ride.

Barbara rocked the house with "The Wreck of the Old 97" and "Will the Circle Be Unbroken"

Gary and Curtis, two of the most honest men that I know!

Gary and David hamming it up on The Liars Bench.

Thank you Liars Bench fans! Don't forget, there will be a special showing of The Liars Bench, Saturday September 24 at 1:30pm at WCUs Mountain Heritage Center (227.7129). I do believe that Mountain Heritage Day will never be the same!!!

More photos soon at www.facebook.com/theliarsbench

Folklore, Lies, and Tall Tales Coming to the Mountain Heritage Center

2011-08-29T00:49:00.001-04:00

The Liars Bench show "Folklore, Lies, and Tall Tales" is coming Thursday September 1 at 7pm to WCUs Mountain Heritage Center (227.7129).
Special guests for this presentation are:

Local author and storyteller Curtis Blanton with some of his famous Porch tales!

From Stone Mountain Georgia, David Hirt, Dramatist and master storyteller tells stories he first heard at his Uncle Gordon's knee.

Dr. Gary Carden, The Liars Bench creator and artistic director, Brown-Hudson Folklore Award winner, will host the show and never fails to bring down the house with poignant, entertaining stories.

Lloyd Arneach, Cherokee master storyteller, will tell stories of the time before.

Paul Iarussi, founding member of the "Sweet Tater Band", old-time claw hammer guitar and traditional mountain singer.

Dr. Barbara Duncan, Brown-Hudson Folklore Award winner, recites her own Southern Appalachian poetry and sings haunting traditional and new (CD: "Music Says Go") ballads.

William Ritter, proficient on the guitar, banjo, and fiddle; William sings ancient ballads and modern bluegrass for your entertainment.

Bodine, accused cat killer (since exonerated), currently The Liars Bench official mascot, will be looking for you Thursday September 1 at 7pm at WCUs Mountain Heritage Center auditorium.

The Liars Bench--On the Road, in the Rear View Mirror

2011-08-28T15:43:00.003-04:00

Thank you for your patience Liars Bench fans. This week has been busy what with working on a Liars Bench logo,

future show planning (two BIG shows in September--more on that shortly!)
and, darn,
I almost forgot our "On the Road" show Thursday evening at the Macon County Public Library.

Gary told one of his signature stories "Mason Jars in the Flood" which is about Gary's role in the flood of 1940 here in Jackson County.

Barbara Duncan sang "Pretty Polly", an old ballad warning young women of lustful, murderous men. Barbara recited one of her original poems from her 1999 book "Crossing Cowee Mountain." And she sang a song about Junaluska from her latest CD "Music Says Go."

Keith Shuler, who lives on Buff Creek in Jackson County, sang several original songs, one about a bunch of stray dogs and Nance Dude. "Smoky Mountain Days," the title cut from one of Keith's CDs.

Dave Waldrop sang a song about a steel mill in Reardon West Virginia--"Are They Really Going to Shut the Steel Mill Down?"

Judging from the audience and their reactions I believe that the folks in Franklin and Macon County like us.

Don't worry. We'll be back--Bodine insists on it!

The Liars Bench--On the Road

2011-08-23T22:46:00.000-04:00

Ladies and Gentlemen. The Liars Bench heads back onto the road for a one-night-stand at the Macon County Library in Franklin North Carolina this Thursday August 25 at 7pm.

The special guest for this show will be singer/song writer Keith Shuler.

Liars Bench show creator/artistic director Gary Carden will tell "Mason Jars in the Flood."

Guitarist, writer, singer, and poet Barbara Duncan will sing songs from her new CD "Music Says Go."

Humorist, author, and singer Dave Waldrop will sing songs and tell tales of our Southern Mountains.

Bodine will be lookin' for you. Come early for a good seat!

Coming very soon--"Folklore, Lies, & Tall Tales"
Stay tuned!

"Cherokee in a Changing World" was BIG!

2011-08-08T19:17:00.002-04:00

Folks, we apologize for not getting you a recap sooner. We've been working on several marketing projects to make the show bigger, better, and more well-known here in WNC and the Southeast. Simply put, last Thursday night's Liars Bench at Western Carolina University's Mountain Heritage Center was even bigger than our first show. Here’s the photos:

A painting of the "Booger Dance"

Garfield Long, a Cherokee Gospel singer kicked off the night with "Amazing Grace," in both English and Cherokee.

Paul Iarussi sang a great old-time tune about "Handsome Molly."

Gary Carden and Lloyd Arneach did a 'tag-team' story on white tourists and the Nunnihi.

Paul sang a murder ballad, "Down in the Garden."

Jane Eastman, Assistant Professor of Anthropology and Director of Cherokee Studies gave an interesting talk with slides on the Cherokee village that came before Cullowhee and WCU.

Davy Arch, master Cherokee mask carver, presented many Cherokee ceremonial masks and talked about the "Booger" dance.

Some of the masks used in Cherokee rituals

Barbara McRae, Editor of the Franklin Press, helped us to understand what William Bartram may have seen at the Nikwasi mound located in the present day Franklin.

Barbara Duncan, one of the members of The Liars Bench performed original songs from her new album "Music Says Go."

Robert Conley, Sequoyah Distinguished Professor of Cherokee Studies, read a story about Cherokees in Oklahoma attempting to make-off with a plastic statue of Hiawatha.

The audience loved it.

Bodine and the rest of the Liars Bench Bunch thank you for supporting The Liars Bench, WNCs only live, authentic traditional storytelling, music, poetry, drama, folk arts presentation!

Coming in September; "Folklore, Lies, and Tall tales" on Thursday September 1 at 7pm at the MHC (227.7129) and, drum-roll please, Mountain Heritage Day. Please check back for updates on our performers and more detailed information on our coming show dates. Thank you Liars Bench Bunch fans.
More photos at www.facebook.com/liarsbenchbunch.com

Update on "Cherokee in a Changing World"

2011-07-28T00:36:00.000-04:00

The Liars Bench
"An Authentic, Traditional Southern Appalachian Storytelling, Music, Poetry, Drama, Folk arts Live Presentation”

Coming Thursday August 4 at 7pm at WCUs Mountain Heritage Center auditorium (828-227-7129) The Liars Bench presents the theme "Cherokee in a Changing World." Lloyd Arneach and Gary Carden will tell a story about the Legend of the Nunnihi/When the Tourist Came and Paul Iarussi plays his great old-time claw hammer guitar music.

Our special guests will be Barbara McRae of the Franklin Press presenting the mysteries of the Nikwasi mound on the Little Tennessee river; Jane Eastman, Director of Cherokee studies at WCU, with a presentation on the Cherokee village at WCU; Davy Arch with a presentation on the Booger Dance and other Cherokee ceremonial dances; and Robert Conley, holder of the Sequoyah Distinguished Professor chair in Cherokee Studies at WCU, presents “Cherokee in a Changing World."

If we have time we may include a discussion of Margaret Siler’s book about the Cherokees who lived in Macon County before the Europeans came.
This presentation of The Liars Bench may prove to be the most informative and entertaining show that we have had since our beginning in June of 2010. As always be prepared for a surprise guest or two. We hope you’ll be there and bring a friend!

The Liars Bench--"Cherokee in a Changing World"

2011-07-26T23:02:00.000-04:00

The Liars Bench
"An Authentic, Traditional Southern Appalachian Storytelling, Music, Poetry, Drama, Folkarts Live Presentation
Coming Thursday August 4 at 7pm at WCUs Mountain Heritage Center auditorium (828-227-7129) the Liars Bench presents the theme "Cherokee in a Changing World." Possible presentations include Gary Carden & Lloyd Arneach--storytelling, Paul Iarussi--music and discussion with such topics as the Nikwasi Mound, the meaning of "The Booger Dance" and the Legend of the Nunnihi.
Some notables coming to the Liars Bench will be Barbara McRae—Nikwasi, Robert Conley—Cherokee in a Changing World, and Jane Eastman—Cherokees beneath WCU. We may include a discussion of Margaret Siler's book about the Cherokees who once lived in Macon County....and we are hoping to have a Cherokee quartet. As always be prepared for a mystery guest or two. See you there!

Liars Bench "Breaks a Leg" at Franklin Folk Festival

2011-07-18T23:38:00.000-04:00

Folks, the Liars Bench does it again at the Franklin Folk Festival!

Creator and artistic director Gary Cardin,

old-time music rising star Paul Iarussi of The Sweet tater Band,

Lloyd Arneach, probably the greatest living Cherokee story teller,

and Dave Waldrop, Jackson County's own, almost famous singer/song writer

all entertained and thrilled the crowds this past Saturday at the long-running Franklin Folk Festival.

What we didn't expect was the many fans willing to climb the steep steps to the second floor stage where we were performing--but they did.

Wherever I looked there were smiling, happy faces.

As always, you the loyal Liars Bench fans make the show what it is--WNCs only authentic, traditional Southern Appalachian storytelling, music, poetry, dramatic, folk art, live variety show--a cultural and entertainment phenomenon.
Thank you so very much.

Coming Thursday August 4 at 7pm at WCUs Mountain Heritage Center auditorium (828-227-7129)

the Liars Bench presents the theme "Cherokee in a Changing World." Possible presentations include storytelling, music and discussion with such topics as the Nikwasi Mound, the meaning of "The Booger Dance" and the Legend of the Nunnihi. We are hoping to lure some Cherokee notables including Robert Conley, former Chief Robert Youngdeer and author Barbara McRae who wrote a definitive pamphlet on the Nikwasi Mound. If time permits and folks are forthcoming, we may include a discussion of Margaret Siler's book about the Cherokees who once lived in Macon County....and we are hoping to have a Cherokee quartet. As always be prepared for a mystery guest or two. See you there!

The Liars Bench Bunch
http://theliarsbenchgazette.blogspot.com/
More photos at: www.facebook.com/liarsbenchbunch

Full House at Liars Bench Inaugural Show in WCU Mountain Heritage Center

2011-07-08T23:07:00.000-04:00

Ladies and gentlemen. This past Thursday evening was astounding. Jackson County's own, The Liars Bench, pulled in a full house at it's inaugural show at WCUs Mountain Heritage Center. "On the Wings of a Snow White Dove" was the theme and the audience loved it. Here's the pictures to prove it.

Paul Iarussi opens the show with "I'll fly Away."

The Passmores and friends--good old gospel music!

World famous Cherokee story teller Lloyd Arneach enthralls the crowd with the Cullowhee "Him-a-layin' possum" and the "Possum and the Turtle."

Gary with Steve Brady accompanying recitating "Go Down Death."

Mary Fowler singing "The Goodness of Jesus."

The appreciative audience. Loyal fans, one and all!

Dave Waldrop performed an audience sing-a-long "Love Everybody."

William Ritter and Bodine do a duet!

Will Peebles leading the audience in shape note singing of "Angel Band."

Gary Carden--Creator and Artistic Director of The Liars Bench--"An authentic traditional Southern Appalachian storytelling, music, poetry, dramatic, and folkarts live variety show."

A BIG THANK YOU to our loyal fans!

Our next show is on Saturday July 16 at the Franklin Folk Festival in Franklin, NC
http://www.renewingfranklin.org/folk.html ; 828-524-2516; lschlott@franklinnc.com

Our next show at WCUs Mountain Heritage Center (828-227-7129) is on Thursday August 4 at 7pm where the theme will be
"Cherokee in a Changing World."

Cordially,
Carl Iobst
Public Relations/Publicity
The Liars Bench
http://theliarsbenchgazette.blogspot.com/
www.facebook.com/liarsbenchbunch

Liars Bench Southern Appalachian variety show to play "On the Wings of a Snow-White Dove" Religious theme at WCUs Mountain Heritage Center

2011-06-26T22:34:00.000-04:00

Well folks, you knew it had to happen. The Liars Bench is moving to larger "summer quarters" at WCUs Mountain Heritage Center. Here's the release:

“An Authentic Traditional Southern Appalachian Storytelling, Music, Poetry, Dramatic, and Folk Arts Live Variety Show”

Artistic Director Of The Liars Bench Announces Premier Show at WCUs Mountain Heritage Center.

Liars Bench Southern Appalachian variety show to play “On the Wings of a Snow White Dove” Religious theme at July Mountain Heritage Center show.

On Thursday July 7 at 7:00 pm The Liars Bench moves to WCUs Mountain Heritage Center in Cullowhee with an “On the Wings of a Snow-White Dove” religious show theme. July’s presentation will be the premier of the Liars Bench show at the prestigious Mountain Heritage Center auditorium and a first with an old-time religion through stories and song motif.

Dr. Gary Carden, artistic director and host of the Liars Bench performs “Go Down Death” with musician Steve Brady. The White Sisters, a Franklin Gospel group, perform “On the Wings of a Snow-White Dove,” among other Gospel favorites. Will Peebles, head of WCUs music department, will demonstrate shape note singing (with audience participation). Mary Fowler, a spiritual singer from Liberty Baptist Church on Scotts Creek, performs “The Goodness of Jesus.” Paul Iarussi, recently featured on Larry the Cable Guy’s “Made in America” will perform old-time claw hammer guitar numbers guaranteed to get your toes tapping. And a mystery guest or two just might put in an appearance—wait and see.

Carden said “the Liars Bench is a special cultural event and an opportunity for the audience to learn about religion in our southern mountain history.

Regular cast members include Gary Carden, Lloyd Arneach, Paul Iarussi, Barbara Duncan, Dave Waldrop, Steve Brady, and the show’s mascot Bodine. The Liars Bench recognizes established regional artists and performers and encourages new talent also. The Liars Bench has been a crowd pleaser from the very first show in June of 2010 promoting any and all aspects of Appalachian culture.

“The Liars Bench is a unique blend of culturally accurate mountain Americana with traditional Southern Appalachian entertainment for everyone. We attempt to treat Appalachian culture with integrity and authenticity and to be an accurate reflection of the Southern Highlanders and their ways. This show is one you will not want to miss” said Carden.

The Liars Bench was created in the early summer of 2010 by Gary Carden to promote Southern Appalachian storytelling, music, poetry, drama, and folk arts.

Coming Thursday August 4 at 7:00 pm at the MHC: “Cherokee in a Changing World: Traditional and contemporary legends and lore.”

http://theliarsbenchgazette.blogspot.com/

http://www.facebook.com/liarsbenchbunch/

###

theliarsbenchpr@gmail.com

garycarden14@yahoo.com

Come visit with us, set a spell, tap your toes, and enjoy great authentic traditional Southern Appalachian storytelling, music, poetry, drama, and folk arts live at the Mountain Heritage Center Thursday July 7 at 7pm. Hope to see you all there!

Anniversary Liars Bench Show a Huge Success!

2011-06-05T23:57:00.000-04:00

The first anniversary show of The Liars Bench Saturday night at City Lights Bookstore was a huge success.

Playing before a packed house Paul Iarussi had everyone tapping their toes and clapping their hands with "Willy Poor Boy" and "The Long Black Veil."

Lloyd Arneach, who's been with us from the beginning, really entertained the audience with his "Bear who walked like a man" story and his short offering about his daughter's dog chasing people on a bicycle (not really).

Steve Brady did a humorous sketch on Swan Lake.

Our creator and executive producer, Gary Carden kept everyone in their seats, smiling, and wanting more from his signature story, "Blow the Tannery Whistle," a story about the end of the world on November 28, 1940 in Jackson County.

Dave Waldrop finished up The Liars Bench first anniversary show with "Sweet Country Music."

The staff of the Liars Bench would like to give a big thanks to performers who have played on the show this past year: Lloyd Arneach, Glenda Beall, Tom Bennett, Steve Brady and Family, David Brewin, Kay Byer, Gary Cardin, Jim Casada, Marvin Cole, Barbara Duncan, Perry Eury, Jill Gottesman, Paul Iarussi, Marion Jones, Saundra Kelley, Eric Legge, Marie Lehigh, Brent Martin, Victoria Casey McDonald, Benny Messer, Jack Parris, Jack Pyle, Taylor Reese, John Quinnett, Nancy Reeder, William Ritter, Newt Smith, Smoky Mountain Choral Ensemble, Dave Waldrop.
And an even Bigger thanks to our sponsors: City Lights Bookstore, Jarrett House, Bill Lee, Melrose, Seago, and Lay, P.A., Joan and Nathan Mickleson, Mountain Heritage Center, Signature Coffee, Stansberry Insurance, Edna Waldrop, Chris Wilcox, Hoopers Restaurant.
Of course the biggest thanks of all goes to you, our loyal fans. Without you none of this could have happened.
See you Thursday July 7, 7:00pm at the Mountain Heritage Center for "On the Wings of a Snow-white Dove."

Cordially,
Carl Iobst
Public Relations
The Liars Bench
theliarsbenchpr@gmail.com
http://theliarsbenchgazette.blogspot.com/
www.facebook.com/liarsbenchbunch

Gary on the Radio!

2011-06-02T23:01:00.000-04:00

Earlier today (Thursday) I met Gary at WRGC 680 AM. News Director John Gurtler interviewed Gary. John opened a microphone for me despite me not 'cracking' a mic on the radio in over ten years.
Everybody at the Liars Bench is looking forward to seeing you Saturday evening at 7pm at City Lights for 'the end of the world' in Jackson County! Well folks, not really the end of the world but at least a story about it.
See ya.

Liars Bench "Smoky Mountain" Anniversary Show at City Lights Saturday June 4

2011-05-23T00:33:00.000-04:00

The Liars Bench

“An Authentic Traditional Southern Appalachian Storytelling, Music, Poetry, Dramatic, and Folk Arts Live Variety Show”

Creator Of The Liars Bench Announces Anniversary Show At City Lights Bookstore, Sylva.

On Saturday June 4 at 7pm The Liars Bench returns to City Lights Bookstore venue in Sylva with a "Smoky Mountain Anniversary." This show marks the first anniversary of the Liars Bench.

Gary Carden, creator of the Liars Bench, folklorist and storyteller, and host of the show will take you back to when the people of Sylva and Jackson County experienced the ‘end of the world.’ Lloyd Arneach, Cherokee storyteller, will enthrall the audience with long ago stories of the earliest Americans. Paul Iarussi, just recently featured on national television, entertains as always with his claw hammer guitar and sings old time mountain music.

The Liars Bench creator Dr. Gary Carden said “the Liars Bench is a unique blend of culturally accurate mountain Americana with traditional Southern Appalachian entertainment for everybody. It is quite possible we will have surprise guests—you never know.” This show is one you will not want to miss.”

Regular cast members include Gary Carden, Lloyd Arneach, Paul Iarussi, Dave Waldrop, Steve Brady, and the show’s mascot Bodine. The Liars Bench recognizes established regional artists and performers and encourages new talent also. The Liars Bench has been a crowd pleaser from the very first show in June of 2010 promoting any and all aspects of Appalachian culture.

The Liars Bench was started in the early summer of 2010 by Gary Carden to promote Southern Appalachian storytelling, music, poetry, drama, and folk arts.

Coming in July: “Summer Quarters” at the Mountain Heritage Center at Western Carolina University.

http://theliarsbenchgazette.blogspot.com/

http://www.facebook.com/liarsbenchbunch/

"Planting by the Signs" Liars Bench Show SRO at City Lights!

2011-05-09T23:34:00.000-04:00

Last Saturday's "Planting by the Signs" Liars Bench show with special guests Jack Pyle and Taylor Reese was standing room only at City Lights Bookstore in Sylva.

Surprise guests Jim Casada and Jill Gottesman wowed the crowd.

And The Liars Bench regulars worked their magic

Thank you again, loyal fans. Coming Saturday June 4 at 7pm at City Lights Bookstore a "Smoky Mountain Anniversary" Liars Bench. See you there!

Carl Iobst
Public Relations
The Liars Bench

Saturday May 7 "Planting by the Signs" Liars Bench Show at City Lights Bookstore

2011-05-02T19:13:00.001-04:00

Come one, come all to the "Planting by the Signs" Liars Bench show at City Lights Bookstore this Saturday May 7 at 7pm. Storytelling, great old-time music, maybe some mountain poetry, and maybe, just maybe some drama for you theater people. You're going to love it folks.

With special guests, authors and master gardeners Jack Pyle and Taylor Reese!

Hope to see you there!

April 9 Liars Bench at City Lights a Success!

2011-04-17T22:31:00.000-04:00

Folks,
I apologize for not posting sooner (been a little under the weather for a few days). The Saturday April 9 "Creeks , Rivers, and Ridges of the Great Smokies" Liars Bench show at City Lights was a success! Here's the pictures to prove it.

Thank you to our special guest Jim Casada.
Thank you to our creator and executive producer Gary Carden. Thank you to our host Dave Waldrop. Thank you to our great performers Barbara Duncan, Steve Brady (& Steve's daughter), and Paul Iarussi.
Most of all, thank you to our great, supportive audience.
Hope to see you Saturday May 7 at 7pm at City Lights Bookstore for "Planting by the Signs" with special guests Jack Pyle and Taylor Reese
More photos at www.facebook.com/LiarsBenchBunch

Saturday April 9 "Creeks, Rivers, and Ridges of the Great Smokies" Liars Bench Show at City Lights

2011-04-01T01:31:00.000-04:00

Hey folks,

I just wanted to remind you of the next Liars Bench show in Jackson County.

On Saturday April 9 at 7pm The Liars Bench returns to City Lights Bookstore in Sylva for "Creeks, Rivers, and Ridges of the Great Smokies" with special guest and award-winning author, outdoorsman, and Bryson City native Jim Casada with hunting and fishing tales.

Gary Carden, creator of the Liars Bench and master folklorist and storyteller will entertain and educate with authentic and culturally accurate stories about 'who we are.'

Barbara Duncan brings her unique perspective to Southern Appalachia Americana with her haunting ballads and well researched folklore.

Lloyd Arneach, Cherokee storyteller--need I say more?

Steve Brady, a skilled dramatist from Macon County brings a new and exciting perspective to memorable orations.

Paul Iarussi, claw hammer guitar musician soon to be featured on national television, plays ‘old time’ mountain music.

Dave Waldrop, The Liars Bench Master of Ceremonies, song writer and singer of songs, and mountain humorist ties this "Creeks, Rivers, and Ridges of the Great Smokies" Liars Bench presentation into something you'll not want to miss.

Showtime is at 7pm but please come early to get a good seat Saturday April 9 at City Lights Bookstore in Sylva.

Thank you to all our loyal fans for making The Liars Bench Western North Carolina's only authentic traditional Southern Appalachian storytelling, music, poetry, dramatic, and folk arts live variety show.

http://www.facebook.com/liarsbenchbunch/

Overflow Audience for "White Lightning" Show, March 12, City Lights, Sylva

2011-03-15T19:08:00.000-04:00

Wow. What a night with the Liars Bench at City Lights this past Saturday night! Thank you ladies and gentlemen for making this "white lightning" show an overwhelming success.

Paul Iarussi and Benny Messer of the "Sweet Tater Band" entertained everyone with their foot-stomping old time claw hammer guitar and "upside down and backwards" banjo music and singing.

Marion Jones and Jack Parris described in detail how Smoky Mountain 'dew' was made in Marion's genuine moonshine still. The audience learned how to become amateur distillers of the finest 'medicinal' spirits.

Lloyd Arneach entertained us all thoroughly with his authentic Cherokee stories.

Steve Brady gave a detailed (and sometimes personal) and very entertaining history of the earliest beginnings of the very close association between NASCAR and moonshine bootlegging giving new meaning to "drinking and driving."

Gary Carden, despite technical difficulties with the a/v equipment, had everyone laughing and clapping with his stories of 'Major' Louis Redmond, Jackson County's most famous (and successful) moonshiner.

Thank you Paul, Benny, Marion, Jack, Lloyd, Steve, Gary, Dave; and, most of all, thank you our audience and loyal fans for being our special guests at The Liars Bench--the region's only authentic traditional Southern Appalachian storytelling, music, poetry, dramatic, and folk arts live variety show.

Our next presentation is at the Chautauqua Andrews, Friday April1 at 7pm at the Valleytown Cultural Arts Center where the cast of The Liars Bench takes our unique brand of Southern Appalachian entertainment "beyond the Iron Mountains and into the West." Go to http://www.chautauquaandrews.org/ for more details.

On Saturday April 9 at 7pm The Liars Bench returns to City Lights Bookstore in Sylva for "Creeks, Rivers, and Ridges of the Great Smokies" with special guest and award-winning author, outdoorsman, and Bryson City native Jim Casada.

Again folks, thank you for your support. We couldn't do it without you.
Cordially,
Carl Iobst
The Liars Bench
theliarsbenchpr@gmail.com
http://theliarsbenchgazette.blogspot.com/
www.facebook.com/LiarsBenchBunch

P.S. Bodine says 'hey.'

"White Lightning" Liars Bench Show at City Lights Sylva, March 12,2011

2011-02-28T00:01:00.001-05:00

The Liars Bench

“An Authentic Traditional Southern Appalachian Storytelling, Music, Poetry, Dramatic, and Folk Arts Live Variety Show”

Host of The Liars Bench announces eleventh show at City Lights Bookstore, Sylva.

Liars Bench Southern Appalachian variety show to play a “moonshining in the mountains” presentation at local Sylva bookstore.

Celebrating “moonshining in the mountains,” The Liars Bench, Western North Carolina’s own Southern Appalachian live variety show plays City Lights Bookstore Saturday March 12 at 7:00 pm for the show’s eleventh time. Marion Jones, Jack Parris, Gary Carden, Lloyd Arneach, Barbara Duncan, Steve Brady, and Paul Iarussi will be performing at this March 12 “white lightening” show. Gary Carden, a noted local folklorist and storyteller, will give a special introduction to a short segment of “Prince of Dark Corners”, the story of Louis Redmond, a famous Jackson County ‘moonshiner.’ Marion Jones and Jack Parris will demonstrate with an authentic ‘still’ how the old timers made (some still do) “white liquor.” Steve Brady will relate, in story and song, the strong ties between the moonshining industry and the beginnings of NASCAR. Admission is free.

Dave Waldrop, The Liars Bench host, said “this show is definitely going to be a unique cultural event and an opportunity for the audience to learn about our southern mountain history. I wouldn’t be in the least surprised to see a revenuer or two.”

Regular cast members include Gary Carden, Lloyd Arneach, Paul Iarussi, Barbara Duncan, Dave Waldrop, Steve Brady, and the show’s mascot Bodine. The Liars Bench recognizes established artists and performers and encourages new talent also. The Liars Bench has been a crowd pleaser from the very first show in June of 2010 promoting any and all aspects of Appalachian culture.

The Liars Bench creator Gary Carden said “from the very first The Liars Bench has been on the cutting edge blending authentic traditional Southern Appalachian culture with entertainment for children and adults—no matter where they come from. The Liars Bench strives, and succeeds, in giving an accurate view of the people and their culture here in the southern mountains.”

The Liars Bench was started in the early summer of 2010 by Gary Carden to promote Southern Appalachian storytelling, music, poetry, drama, and folk arts.

Gary Carden, Creator & Executive Producer of The Liars Bench

2011-02-17T01:24:00.000-05:00

Gary Carden started The Liars Bench in the late Spring of 2010. He is a recipient of the North Carolina Folklore Society’s Brown-Hudson Folklore Award. He was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Folklore and Theater by Western Carolina University. Gary has eight produced plays. He told his first stories to 150 White Leghorn chickens in a dark chicken house when he was six years old. Gary’s audience wasn’t terribly attentive and tended to get hysterical during the dramatic parts. Gary lives in Sylva with “Jack,” his faithful Jack Russell terrier.

Packed House at City Lights Saturday Night February 5th

2011-02-07T02:22:00.000-05:00

Ladies and Gentlemen,
Thank you for making The Liars Bench show, "A Sense of Place in the Southern Appalachians," a rousing success this past Saturday night at City Lights Bookstore in Sylva.
Gary Carden, Kay Byer, Lloyd Arneach, Brent Martin, Barbara Duncan, Steve Brady, Paul Iarussi, and Dave Waldrop thoroughly appreciate your participation at, and enjoyment of Western North Carolina's only authentic Southern Appalachian storytelling, music, poetry, dramatic, and folk arts live variety show.

Please don't forget our upcoming show on Saturday March 12 at 7:00 pm
at City Lights Bookstore in Sylva when we perform, "Moonshining in the
Mountains" with stories about moonshiners and revenuers, NASCAR and
bootleggers, and a real moon shine still complete with some of Popcorn
Sutton's "last run." Who knows, we might even see a revenuer or two! :)

Cordially,
Carl Iobst
The Liars Bench
Bodine Productions
Public Relations/Publicity
http://theliarsbenchgazette.blogspot.com/
http://hollernotes.blogspot.com/

Coming soon, biographies of our performers and other interesting 'behind the scenes' info about Western North Carolina's only authentic Southern Appalachian storytelling, music, poetry, dramatic, and folk arts live variety show.

A Sense of Place in the Southern Appalachians

2011-01-28T00:45:00.000-05:00

The Liars Bench

“A Southern Appalachian Storytelling, Music, Poetry, Dramatic, and Folk Arts Live Variety Show”

Host of The Liars Bench announces tenth show at City Lights Bookstore, Sylva.

The Liars Bench, a Southern Appalachian variety show to feature “a sense of place in the Southern Appalachians” plays at local Sylva bookstore.

Sylva, January 27, 2011—Celebrating “a sense of place in the Southern Appalachians,” The Liars Bench, Western North Carolina’s own Southern Appalachian live variety show plays City Lights Bookstore Saturday February 5 at 7:00 pm for the show’s tenth time. Kathryn Stripling Byer, Brent Martin, Gary Carden, Lloyd Arneach, Barbara Duncan, Steve Brady, and Paul Iarussi will be performing at this February 5 show.

Former North Carolina poet laureate and National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship winner Kathryn Stripling Byer will read from some of her latest work including “Last Light.” Brent Martin, regional director for the Wilderness Society, will read his poetry inspired by the wild lands, the folklore, and the history of Western North Carolina in “A Shout in the Woods.” Admission is free.

Dave Waldrop, The Liars Bench host, said “this show is definitely a step in an exciting direction for The Liars Bench. We’re going to show through storytelling, poetry, music, and comedy why the Southern Appalachian people love this place above any other on earth.”

Regular cast members include Gary Carden, Lloyd Arneach, Paul Iarussi, Barbara Duncan, Dave Waldrop, Steve Brady, and the show’s mascot Bodine. The Liars Bench recognizes established artists and performers and encourages new talent also. The Liars Bench has been a crowd pleaser from the very first show in June of 2010 promoting any and all aspects of Appalachian culture.

The Liars Bench creator Gary Carden said “my vision from the very first has been artfully blending the culture and entertainment of the Southern Appalachian region into the best traditional entertainment available for children and adults. Above all, The Liars Bench gives an authentic, accurate view of traditional Southern Appalachian ways.”

The Liars Bench was started in the early summer of 2010 by Gary Carden to promote Southern Appalachian storytelling, music, poetry, drama, and folk arts.

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The Liars Bench--A Southern Appalachian Tradition

2011-01-21T22:47:00.000-05:00

“A Southern Appalachian Storytelling, Music, Poetry, Dramatic, and Folk Arts Live Variety Show”

The Liars Bench is an authentic Southern Appalachian storytelling, music, poetry, dramatic, and folk arts presentation. Started in the summer of 2010 by Gary Carden, the show has been an audience pleaser from the very beginning. The Liars Bench promotes and showcases any and all aspects of Southern Appalachian culture. The Liars Bench recognizes established artists and performers and encourages new talent also. Regular cast members include Gary Carden, Lloyd Arneach, Paul Iarussi, Barbara Duncan, Dave Waldrop, Steve Brady, and our mascot Bodine. The Liars Bench continues the grand tradition of true mountain folkways through down-home entertainment.