The Liars Bench will tell the story of the hanging of Jack Lambert and other murder/execution stories in “Hangman, hangman slack your rope” at 7 p.m., April 19, at WCU’s Mountain Heritage Center.

The event will feature the compelling story of Jack Lambert being ‘framed’ for the murder of Dick Wilson, convicted and unjustly executed in the last legal hanging in Swain County in 1886.

The performance will also include stories about John Hardy, Tom Dula and Cherokee myths and legends of figures who sacrificed themselves for the Cherokee people. Descendants of both Dick Wilson and Jack Lambert will talk at the event, in addition to Liars Bench regulars Gary Carden, host and storyteller; Lloyd Arneach, the Cherokee storyteller; Paul Iarussi, claw-hammer guitar specialist; William Ritter, vocalist and musician; and Karen Barnes.

The Liars Bench is a two-year old program featuring authentic traditional Southern Appalachian storytelling, music, poetry, and drama. Admission is free for all.

828.227.7129.