The Liar’s Bench forms the basis of a new show featuring Newfoundland comedy, songs, stories and recitations.

Ken Parsons, along with other performers, are drawing on the idea of a Newfoundland tradition – a bench where men gather to hear the latest news and “goings-on” in their communities.

He says the bench was a central point where people got their news and it was the “water cooler” of the wharf in their community.

Years ago, recitation was one of the only ways for people to spread information about important events.

Today we have the internet, but back then if a boat went down or something happened, songs and stories were created to get the word out says Parsons.

“The Liar’s Bench” will take place on Thursday evening at the Manuels River Interpretation Centre at 7:30 p.m. It will include performances from Parsons, Harry Ingram and Dave Penney.