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.

Holiday Special | Episode 22-53

Dec 31, 2022

In this very special episode of Tent Show Radio, Big Top's very own Blue Canvas Orchestra does Christmas "Chautauqua" style. Tune in to hear your favorite BCO musicians cover Holiday favorites as they present a "Blue Canvas Christmas.

First broadcast in 1994, Tent Show Radio is a weekly one-hour radio program...

Back to the Garden: The Music of Woodstock | Episode 22-52

Dec 24, 2022

Enjoy an electric hour of the Blue Canvas Orchestra’s beloved tribute to the Woodstock Music Festival on this episode of Tent Show Radio. In 1969, nearly half a million people gathered on a dairy farm northwest of New York City for a three-day rock concert and celebration of peace, love, and music that became one of...

Richie Havens & Robert Cray | Episode 22-51

Dec 19, 2022

On this week’s episode of Tent Show Radio, savor an hour featuring archived recordings of music legends Richie Havens and Robert Cray. Richie Havens, known for his ragged voice, percussive musicianship, and soulful sensibility, is considered as one of the most influential artists of the 1960’s. From playing...

Home Free | Episode 22-50

Dec 14, 2022

On this week’s episode of Tent Show Radio hosted by Michael Perry enjoy a special recording from the archives featuring award-winning acapella sensation Home Free. With praise rolling in wide ranges from the likes of Billboard and Rolling Stone, their incredible liveshows showcase each member's vocal talent,...

Michael Perry | Episode 22-49

Dec 3, 2022

This week on Tent Show Radio, enjoy a full episode featuring the best of host Michael Perry. A celebrated New York Times best-selling author, musician, and humorist, Michael Perry shares tales of life in Wisconsin with an eye toward how his stories of the past connect us to the future.