Tent Show Radio

First broadcast in 1994, Tent Show Radio is a weekly one-hour radio program showcasing the best live recordings from acclaimed music acts and entertainers who grace the Big Top Chautauqua stage each summer in beautiful Bayfield, WI. In the program's nearly 30 year history it has featured artists like Johnny Cash, B.B King, Brandi Carlile, Willie Nelson, Don McLean, and many more. Hosted by celebrated New York Times best-selling author Michael Perry-who weaves stories and humor throughout each episode - Tent Show Radio features performances from renowned national & regional artists, with regular appearances featuring Big Top’s own unique brand of shows that feature songs and stories performed by its acclaimed house band, The Blue Canvas Orchestra.

Tent Show Radio is independently produced by Big Top Chautauqua, a non-profit performing arts organization, with a mission to present performances and events that celebrate history and the environment - along with their annual summer concert series - nestled in the woods on the shores of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands.

The Mavericks - Part Two | Episode 22-40

Oct 1, 2022

Relive an electric night under the tent in this special two-part episode of Tent Show Radio, featuring Grammy award-winning country-rock band The Mavericks.

Founded in 1989 in Miami, Florida, The Mavericks - revered for their unique sound that fuses Tex-Mex, neotraditional country, Latin, and rockabilly influences -...

The Mavericks - Part One | Episode 22-39

Sep 24, 2022

Relive an electric night under the tent in this special two-part episode of Tent Show Radio, featuring Grammy award-winning country-rock band The Mavericks.

Founded in 1989 in Miami, Florida, The Mavericks - revered for their unique sound that fuses Tex-Mex, neotraditional country, Latin, and rockabilly influences -...

John Hiatt with the Jerry Douglas Band | Episode 22-38

Sep 17, 2022

Relive the night the two legendary musicians came together for an unforgettable performance on this week's episode of Tent Show Radio.

Master lyricist and musician John Hiatt is revered for delivering songs filled with tales of redemption, relationships, and surrendering on his own terms. With a sound based in acoustic...

Joyann Parker Band | Episode 22-37

Sep 16, 2022

Enjoy a soulful hour of Tent Show Radio featuring performances from the Joyann Parker Band. A northern Wisconsin native Parker, like many artists, discovered her love of music at a very young age. She harnessed her talents in the Baptist church and as a young adult built a solid foundation of music theory and technique...

Warren Nelson & Friends | Episode 22-36

Sep 3, 2022

Enjoy an hour of stirring performances from Big Top Chautauqua Founder Warren Nelson featuring the Blue Canvas Orchestra and additional special guests on this week’s episode of Tent Show Radio. Long admired for his songwriting, script works, and stage presence, the musician and entertainer has been performing...