Fabulous fibs: Roaring Fork Valley Storytellers to host annual Liar’s Contest on Saturday

Aspen’s Roaring Fork Valley Storytellers is set to host their annual Liar’s Contest, an afternoon of outlandish tales and quick-witted deception.

This free event challenges storytellers not just to spin a compelling yarn but to make the audience believe it. 

Roaring Fork Valley Storytellers President Jill Sheeley said the contest was inspired by her favorite NPR radio show, “Wait, Wait, Don’t Tell Me.”

“About seven years ago, we started this because when I became president, my favorite show on the radio was ‘WWDTM,'” Sheeley said. “I think it’s hysterical. The stories the writers come up with are amazing. That is why we decided to start the Liar’s Contest.”

She emphasized that the event is purely for fun, offering locals and visitors a lively gathering at no cost. 

“We do not raise money from this — of course, we accept donations — but we do it for free because we feel there are not that many community events that are free of charge,” she said. “We supply appetizers, and there is a cash bar at the Elks Lodge — which is inexpensive — but it’s just a really fun opportunity for people to mingle, and a lot of locals love it.”

This year’s lineup of “Tellers” includes Nina Gabianelli, Mike Monroney, Barbara Shaw, and Sylvia Wendrow — each delivering a 10-minute tale that may be either a masterful truth or an outright fabrication.

Judging will be handled by Aspen Mayor Torre, former Pitkin County Commissioner Steve Child, and local literary expert Chris Wheatley. After each story, the judges weigh in on whether they believe it to be true or false, with the audience chiming in as well.

“It’s a really fun community event with great storytelling, filled with laughs, intrigue, and twists and turns,” Torre said.

The contest occurs from 4-6 p.m. on Saturday, March 22, at the Aspen Elks Lodge, 501 E. Hyman, third floor. Complimentary appetizers and a cash bar will be available.