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.

Anishinaabe Dibaajimowin: An Ojibwe Story | Episode 22-31

Jul 30, 2022

Celebrate the rich culture, history, and spirit of the Anishinaabe people in a musical theatre experience that honors the indigenous peoples of the Great Lakes region, in this poignant episode of Tent Show Radio. The acclaimed original show “Anishinaabe Dibaajimowin: An Ojibwe Story,” which debuted in 2021, features...

Them Coulee Boys | Episode 22-30

Jul 23, 2022

This week on Tent Show Radio, experience Them Coulee Boys and their innovative brand of Americana that blends folk, punk, bluegrass, and rock & roll. Soren Staff & Beau Janke formed the group back in 2011, and with the addition of Jens Staff on Mandolin, played their first gig as the rough-around-the-edges folk band,...

New First Night | Episode 22-29

Jul 16, 2022

This week, enjoy a marvelous hour of Tent Show Radio while we revisit our grand reunion under the tent for the first show of our 35th Anniversary Season, “New First Night.” As our host, Michael Perry weaves his humor and stories throughout this special recording, experience the heart and soul of Big Top Chautauqua,...

Chris Kroeze | Episode 22-28

Jul 9, 2022

Enjoy genuine-country soul and alluring vocal delivery from NBC’s THE VOICE 2018 runner-up Chris Kroeze on this week’s episode of Tent Show Radio, recorded live from Big Top in 2021. Kroeze's vocal abilities, guitar skills, and small-town charm connect with both the hearts and minds of audiences across various...

Glenn Miller Orchestra | Episode 22-27

Jul 2, 2022

Enjoy a lively hour of the World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra on this episode of Tent Show Radio.

After the legendary composer's death in 1944, the band re-formed and continued performing Miller's classic pieces including In the Mood, Chattanooga Choo Choo, A String of Pearls, Moonlight Serenade, and Tuxedo Junction....