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.

TSR16-17 Horseshoes & Hand Grenades

Nov 23, 2016

For thirty-five years Riders in the Sky have been keepers of the flame passed on by the Sons of the Pioneers, Gene Autry and Roy Rogers. While remaining true to the integrity of Western music, they have themselves become modern-day icons by branding the genre with their own legendary wacky humor and way-out Western wit,...

TSR16-15 Cloud Cult

Nov 23, 2016

Cloud Cult, originally from Duluth, is an experimental chamber rock band that has sold more than 100,000 albums via their own label, Earthology Records. Started by Craig Minowa, the band is known for its commitment to the environment and for its philosophical lyrics centered on big picture spirituality. Their live shows...

TSR16-14 Tab Benoit

Nov 23, 2016

Tab Benoit is one of Louisiana’s best musical exports. In 2007, Benoit won the dual awards of B.B. King Entertainer of the Year and Best Contemporary Male Performer at the Blues Music Awards in Memphis (formerly the W.C. Handy Awards). In 2006, he received a Grammy nomination for Best Traditional Blues Album for...

TSR16-13 Hot Rize

Aug 17, 2016

Hot Rize has been astounding the bluegrass world with their fresh, contemporary approach to traditional music ever since their formation in 1978. The band’s unique and progressive style of bluegrass, powerful original songs, tight-as-a-drum ensemble playing, and dynamic stage show quickly made them stars on the major...

TSR16-12 Greg Brown

Aug 17, 2016

After more than 20 albums (including Live from the Big Top) and more than three decades of performing, this co-founder of the influential indie roots label Red House Records and former musical director for Garrison Keillor’s A Prairie Home Companion radio program, Iowa singer-songwriter,Greg Brown, has amassed a...