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Open Mic Nights | 1st & 3rd Wednesdays | 6PM
at The Backstage Get up on stage or just grab a seat and listen. Join us for open mic nights every Wednesday at Big Top's new year-round venue The Backstage! Every other week we will be joined by special guest hosts, including some of your favorite Blue Canvas Orchestra musicians! Enjoy live entertainment and drinks during a unique night out. No tickets. No cover. No reservations. Open Mic Nights are FREE and open to the public. |
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Live In The Lounge | Thursday | 7PM
at StageNorth Live In The Lounge is Washburn’s one-of-a-kind concert series—bringing a new band every week to our small town stage. It’s loud, it’s raw, and it’s built on community. Donation-based entry keeps it accessible, and every show is different. |
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Jazz Jam | Last Tuesday of Month | 7PM
at StageNorth Baba Fats will play some tunes to kick off the evening and then will open it up for anyone interested in collaborating to play jazz tunes! Bring ur axe and put your name on the list with a couple of standards you’d like to play! The bar will be open but all ages are welcome, as this is a performing arts center. This jam is intended to be an inclusive learning environment for anyone interested in the jazz tradition! |
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JUL 18 | 7:30PM
Killer Queen | A Tribute To Queen at The Big Top Awarded "Worldwide Best Tribute Band" Killer Queen blew the roof off The Tent in 2023 and they want to do it again for our fortieth season! We can't wait to have them back. Killer Queen is a British Queen tribute band founded in 1993 by Patrick Myers while at London University—the same venue where Queen first played. Renowned for their authentic sound, stagecraft, and uncanny recreation of Queen, they've won numerous awards and sold out arenas, leading them to a collaboration with Fatboy Slim on a chart-topping single. Their international tours have included high-profile performances such as a Live Aid tribute and shows at iconic venues like the West End and Red Rocks Amphitheater. |
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JUL 24 | 7:30PM
Judy Collins with special guest The High Kings at The Big Top Judy Collins has long inspired audiences with sublime vocals, boldly vulnerable songwriting, personal life triumphs, and a firm commitment to social activism. In the 1960s, she evoked both the idealism and steely determination of a generation united against social and environmental injustices. Five decades later, her luminescent presence shines brightly as new generations bask in the glow of her iconic 55-album body of work, and heed inspiration from her spiritual discipline to thrive in the music industry for half a century. The award-winning singer-songwriter is esteemed for her imaginative interpretations of traditional and contemporary folk standards and her own poetically poignant original compositions. Her stunning rendition of Joni Mitchell's “Both Sides Now” from her landmark 1967 album, Wildflowers, has been entered into the Grammy Hall of Fame. Judy’s dreamy and sweetly intimate version of “Send in the Clowns,” a ballad written by Stephen Sondheim for the Broadway musical A Little Night Music, won "Song of the Year” at the 1975 Grammy Awards. She’s garnered several top-ten hits gold- and platinum-selling albums. Recently, contemporary and classic artists such as Rufus Wainwright, Shawn Colvin, Dolly Parton, Joan Baez, and Leonard Cohen honored her legacy with the album Born to the Breed: A Tribute to Judy Collins. The cultural treasure’s 55th album, Spellbound, was released in February 2022, finds Judy enjoying an artistic renaissance. The 13 song album is a special entry in her oeuvre. It marks the first time ever she wrote all the songs on one of her albums. It features 12 new recently-written modern folk songs, and a bonus track of her evergreen, “The Blizzard.” Spellbound is an introspective and impressionistic album. It unfolds as if Judy curated a museum exhibit of her life, and welcomed us into a retrospective of her most formative moments, some big and public, and some intensely personal and intimate. Spellbound was nominated in the Best Folk Album category at the 65th Recording Academy Grammy Awards in 2023. While maintaining her rigorous touring schedule, Judy is set to release her first book of poetry in March of 2025 with Andrews McMeel Publishing. Written with the bold vulnerability that Judy Collins is best known for, Sometimes It’s Heaven is a timeless collection of poetry that captures the ethereal and inspiring nature of her artistry in an all-new way. Biographical and relatable, Sometimes It’s Heaven is a must-read for fans of poetry, fans of Judy, and fans of truth. |
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JUL 25 | 2PM
Brett & The Little Big Show [ FREE FAMILY SERIES ] at Vaughn Public Library Make a morning of it in downtown Ashland! After exploring the Saturday Farmers Market, bring the whole family to the beautiful Vaughn Library for a joyful, interactive musical adventure with Brett & the Little Big Show brought to you in partnership with the Vaughn Public Library. Filled with sing-alongs, silly songs, movement, laughter, and plenty of opportunities for kids (and grown-ups!) to join in, this free performance is designed to spark imaginations and create memories together. Whether you're dancing in the aisles, clapping along, or singing at the top of your lungs, this is a show the whole family can enjoy. This special event is part of Big Top Chautauqua's Free Family Series, celebrating the power of music to bring people together. At Big Top, we believe the arts belong to everyone. We can't wait to welcome you for a fun-filled morning of music, laughter, and community. Bring your friends, bring your neighbors, and come discover that the magic of Big Top isn't just under the blue tent—it's right here at home. |
Sponsored By:
Penny Marx
Bayfield Tourism John Overbeck |
JUL 26 | 2PM
Superior! with The Blue Canvas Orchestra at The Big Top If this water could speak, what would it say? Chock full of original songs, wonderful stories old and new, along with spectacular images on the Big Top screen, "Superior! Songs & Stories of the Big Lake" invites you to celebrate the power, majesty, beauty, and history of "this water" - the greatest of the Great Lakes - SUPERIOR! Cast: Written & directed by Jan Lee, Music Direction by Severin Behnen — Randy Sabien, Jane Aleckson, Tom Mitchell, Danielle Diamond, James Shafstall, Phil Anich and Michael Laughing Fox Charette. |
Sponsored By:
Penny Marx
Bayfield Tourism John Overbeck |
AUG 7 | 7:30PM
Big Top Opry with The Blue Canvas Orchestra at The Big Top The original cast of "Big Top Opry" is back this summer having stuffed 12 more years of classic country into their lives since the show's debut in 2014. The Blue Canvas Orchestra's Corey Carlson and Severin Behnen are the curators of the music and co-creators of this show that pays homage to some of the Grand Ole Opry's most iconic performers. The music of Patsy Cline, Marty Robbins, Hank Williams, Ernest Tubb, Johnny Cash and Kitty Wells will fill the tent in a celebration of the "straight to the heart of it" music that was "country" in the 30s, 40s and 50s. As is our Chautauqua's way, the show will feature "Big Screen" imagery and engaging history in this night of music guaranteed to life you up. Cast: Jane Aleckson, Phil Anich, Emily Driesenga, Severin Behnen, Corey Carlson, Danielle Diamond, Betty Ferris, Tom Mitchell, Randy Sabien, Joe Savage, Ed Willett |
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AUG 14-16
Lake Effect Music Fest at The Big Top Lake Effect Music Fest is a two-day celebration of music and outdoor adventure set for August 14-16 at Big Top Chautauqua in Bayfield, Wisconsin. Nestled at the base of Mt. Ashwabay, this inaugural festival will be an unforgettable experience with a lineup of 13 bands performing across two stages, featuring genres from punk rock to indie to folk to bluegrass. Beyond the music, attendees can immerse themselves in nature with on-site camping under the stars, explore scenic hiking and mountain biking trails, and enjoy a variety of food trucks, and refreshing beverages including an array of local craft beers. Mt. Ashwabay offers views of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands that will take your breath away. As the first music festival organized by Big Top Chautauqua, it promises to provide a unique blend of musical performances and outdoor activities, creating lasting memories for all who attend. |
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AUG 20 | 7:30PM
The Devon Allman Project at The Big Top In late September of 2023, Devon Allman achieved a world-record for performing 50 concerts in the 50 states of America in 49 days. He was just getting warmed up. The modern rock troubadour and torchbearer for the legacy of the blues has led bands such as Honeytribe, Royal Southern Brotherhood, and The Allman Betts Band in equal step with his prodigious solo output and his own Devon Allman Project, racking up thousands of touring miles and creatively never standing still. A singer-songwriter, guitarist, keyboardist, producer and record label chief, Allman has earned widespread critical acclaim, as well as top Billboard chart positions and numerous awards across two decades of musical heritage and invention. The Devon Allman Project features the Allman Betts Band drummer John Lum, ABB bassist Justin Corgin, plus percussionist Alex Orbison, David Gomez on saxophone and guitarist Jackson Stokes. They play songs of The Allman Brothers and Gregg Allman in their set as well as Devon's fan-favorite originals and surprise covers. "He's an elegant, soulful singer.” - Relix “ “… well-crafted, more reflective than fiery, and soulful.” - USA Today |
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Sponsored By:
Penny Marx
Bayfield Tourism John Overbeck |
AUG 21 | 7:30PM
Superior! with The Blue Canvas Orchestra at The Big Top If this water could speak, what would it say? Chock full of original songs, wonderful stories old and new, along with spectacular images on the Big Top screen, "Superior! Songs & Stories of the Big Lake" invites you to celebrate the power, majesty, beauty, and history of "this water" - the greatest of the Great Lakes - SUPERIOR! Cast: Written & directed by Jan Lee, Music Direction by Severin Behnen — Randy Sabien, Jane Aleckson, Tom Mitchell, Danielle Diamond, James Shafstall, Phil Anich and Michael Laughing Fox Charette. |
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Sponsored By:
Penny Marx
Bayfield Tourism John Overbeck |
AUG 22 | 7:30PM
Big Top Opry with The Blue Canvas Orchestra at The Big Top The original cast of "Big Top Opry" is back this summer having stuffed 12 more years of classic country into their lives since the show's debut in 2014. The Blue Canvas Orchestra's Corey Carlson and Severin Behnen are the curators of the music and co-creators of this show that pays homage to some of the Grand Ole Opry's most iconic performers. The music of Patsy Cline, Marty Robbins, Hank Williams, Ernest Tubb, Johnny Cash and Kitty Wells will fill the tent in a celebration of the "straight to the heart of it" music that was "country" in the 30s, 40s and 50s. As is our Chautauqua's way, the show will feature "Big Screen" imagery and engaging history in this night of music guaranteed to life you up. Cast: Jane Aleckson, Phil Anich, Emily Driesenga, Severin Behnen, Corey Carlson, Danielle Diamond, Betty Ferris, Tom Mitchell, Randy Sabien, Joe Savage, Ed Willett |
Sponsored By:
Penny Marx
Bayfield County Tourism John Overbeck |
AUG 23 | 2PM Riding The Wind with The Blue Canvas Orchestra at The Big Top Created for Bayfield in 1985 by Warren Nelson and Betty Ferris, “Riding The Wind” musically tells the history and the tales of the founding of Bayfield and the Apostle Islands. Meet the town Fathers & Mothers, the Industrialists, and the Ojibwe People who sculpted the Bayfield peninsula into what it is today. Ride the winds of time as you experience original music, evocative storytelling, and spectacular visuals that lead you through a journey with our local lighthouse keepers, dreamers and schemers, voyageurs, fishermen, and more. Cast: Phil Anich, Severin Behnen, Michael Charette, Danielle Diamond, Betty Ferris, Otis McLennon, Tom Mitchell, Warren Nelson, Randy Sabien, Ed Willett, MaryLou Williams |
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AUG 29 | 2PM
THIRSTY! [ FREE FAMILY SERIES ] at The Big Top Originally created by the acclaimed In the Heart of the Beast Puppet and Mask Theatre of Minneapolis, THIRSTY follows one determined character on a quest for a drink of water. Along the way, audiences discover the wonder, importance, and shared responsibility of caring for one of our planet's most precious resources. With vibrant puppets, engaging performances, original music, and playful storytelling, THIRSTY invites children and adults alike to laugh, participate, and see water—and one another—in a new light. As part of Big Top Chautauqua's Free Family Series, this event reflects our commitment to bringing exceptional live arts experiences to families throughout our region. Together, we're creating opportunities for children to experience the joy of theater while strengthening the connections that make our communities thrive. |
Sponsored by:
Bethany & Cristopher Owen
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SEP 5 | 7:30PM
The Wallflowers at The Big Top The Wallflowers will mark the 30th anniversary of their landmark album Bringing Down the Horse with a nationwide U.S. tour kicking off April 17, 2026. The band will perform their classic album in its entirety, in sequence. The tour will also include a performance at Stagecoach, the world’s largest country music festival. Originally released on May 21, 1996, Bringing Down the Horse was a critical and commercial triumph. The album peaked at number four on the Billboard 200 and was certified quadruple platinum, cementing the band’s place in ‘90s rock history. The LP yielded four hit singles: • “6th Avenue Heartache” – Two Grammy nominations (1997) • “One Headlight” – Reached #1 on the Billboard singles chart, winning two Grammy Awards (1998). The song ranked #58 on Rolling Stone’s “100 Greatest Pop Songs” • “The Difference” – Grammy nomination (1998) • “Three Marlenas” – Released as the album’s final single in October 1997 Influenced by a slew of first-generation American songwriters including The Band and Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers, The Wallflowers will also pay tribute on the upcoming tour to the 50th anniversary of Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers’ by playing Petty’s 1982 album Long After Dark in its entirety and in sequence as well. Jakob Dylan, the band’s chief songwriter, remains a vital performer in American rock music. As part of three decades of work, in 2002, he inducted Tom Petty into the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame. In 2018, he performed in the critically acclaimed documentary Echo in the Canyon, collaborating with artists ranging from Neil Young and Eric Clapton to Beck, Cat Power, Norah Jones, Regina Spektor. Dylan also contributed songs to several soundtracks, including The Wallflowers' cover of "Heroes" for the 1998 Godzilla film soundtrack and "Arms of a Ghost" to television series, NCIS Los Angeles and "Nothing But the Whole Wide World" to Friday Night Lights. In 2025 The Wallflowers supported Eric Clapton on his US tour as they have done in the past for him as well as the supporting performances for the Who and The Rolling Stones. |
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SEP 10 | 7:30 PM
Trampled By Turtles w/ The Last Revel at The Big Top Trampled by Turtles are from Duluth, Minnesota, where frontman Dave Simonett initially formed the group as a side project in 2003. At the time, Simonett had lost most of his music gear, thanks to a group of enterprising car thieves who'd ransacked his vehicle while he played a show with his previous band. Left with nothing more than an acoustic guitar, he began piecing together a new band, this time taking inspiration from bluegrass, folk, and other genres that didn't rely on amplification. Simonett hadn't played any bluegrass music before, and he filled his lineup with other newcomers to the genre, including fiddler Ryan Young (who'd previously played drums in a speed metal act) and bassist Tim Saxhaug. Along with mandolinist Erik Berry and banjo player Dave Carroll, the group began carving out a fast, frenetic sound that owed as much to rock & roll as bluegrass. There crossover appeal has landed them on the #1 spot of Billboard’s Bluegrass Charts on every record they’ve released while playing marquee festivals like Coachella, ACL Fest, and Lollapalooza. Countless tours with diverse artists ranging Shakey Graves, Zach Bryan, Wilco, Caamp, Mt Joy, Willie Nelson, Avett Brothers, Lord Huron and many more have followed solidifying a loyal fanbase. Their last full length album Alpenglow was produced by Wilco’s Jeff Tweedy. 2025 began with the band releasing a cover of Bon Iver’s “From Emma” with Caamp’s Taylor Meier (aka Sumbuck) on lead vocals. A few new collaborations are set to be announced in the coming weeks. |
Sponsored By:
Penny Marx Bayfield Tourism John Overbeck |
SEP 11 | 7:30 PM
Old Last Night with The Blue Canvas Orchestra at The Big Top A big top tradition 40 years in the making. It’s OLD LAST NIGHT! Don’t miss this once-in-40 year opportunity to celebrate your favorite big blue tent in the Northwoods! Cast: TBD |
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SEPT 19 | 7:30PM
Charlie Parr w/ Nick Foytik Band at StageNorth In the music of Charlie Parr, there is a sincere conviction and earnest drive to create. The Minnesota-born guitarist, songwriter, and interpreter of traditional music has released 19 albums over two decades and has been known to perform up to 275 shows a year. Parr is a folk troubadour in the truest sense: taking to the road between shows, writing and rewriting songs as he plays, fueled by a belief that music is eternal and cannot be claimed or adequately explained. The bluesman poet pulls closely from the sights and sounds around him, his lyrical craftsmanship built by his influences. The sounds from his working-class upbringing—including Folkways legends such as Lead Belly and Woody Guthrie—imbue Parr’s music with stylistic echoes of blues and folk icons of decades past. Parr sees himself merely as a continuer of a folk tradition: “I feel like I stand on a lot of big shoulders,” he said in an interview. “I hope that I’ve brought a little bit of myself to the music.” |
BIG TOP BOX OFFICE & THE BACKSTAGE
84810 State Hwy 13, Bayfield, WI 54814 1.888.244.8368 | 715.373.5552 BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA
32525 Ski Hill Rd, Bayfield, WI 54814 1.888.BIG.TENT | 715.373.5552 STAGENORTH
123 W. Omaha St, washburn, WI 54891 1.888.BIG.TENT | 715.373.5552 |
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