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.

Devon Allman & Donavon Frankenreiter

Aug 21, 2024

On this episode of Tent Show Radio, Rock n Roll recording artists and globetrotting journeymen, Devon Allman & Donavon Frankenreiter perform a career spanning set, showcasing songs off their collaborative EP Rollers.

For nearly four decades Donavon Frankenreiter has been traveling the globe, first as a professional...

Glenn Miller Orchestra

Aug 21, 2024

On this episode of Tent Show Radio, enjoy an invigorating hour of jazz as the world-famous Glenn Miller Orchestra showcase the unforgettable musical legacy of one of the most iconic bandleaders of all time.

Considered to be one of the greatest bands of all time, the world-famous Glenn Miller Orchestra continues to keep...

The Jerry Douglas Band

Aug 9, 2024

On this episode of Tent Show Radio, The Jerry Douglas Band showcase dazzling displays of exquisite musicianship in an hour of performances highlighting the dobro master's legendary career.

14-time Grammy winner Jerry Douglas is a bandleader, producer, session musician, instructor, and a very funny guy! He’s...

The Wailin' Jennys

Aug 9, 2024

On this episode of Tent Show Radio, beloved singer/songwriter trio The Wailin' Jennys perform a career spanning set, showcasing some of the most exciting and exquisite music on the folk-roots scene.

The Wailin’ Jennys are Nicky Mehta, Ruth Moody and Heather Masse —three distinct voices that together make an...

Corey Carlson & The Big City Band

Aug 9, 2024

On this episode of Tent Show Radio, enjoy an hour of electric performances from Corey Carlson & the Big City Band.

Corey Carlson may be Bayfield, WI's hometown boy, but he's known and celebrated far and wide. He grew up on the very ski hill that Big Top Chautauqua calls home and was weaned on all of the legendary...