A non profit performing arts organization since 1986
OUR MISSION
​Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua provides entertaining and educational cultural activities with an emphasis on performances that celebrate history and the environment

Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua was founded in 1986. The first show under canvas was the Nelson-Ferris Concert Company production Riding the Wind, the story of Bayfield and Madeline Island. Since then Big Top has welcomed over 700,000 patrons to the grounds for 2,000+ concerts and shows and countless lectures, workshops and other unique events. In addition to the action on the tent grounds, Big Top has also broadcast its performances over the public radio airwaves since 1994 through Tent Show Radio, bringing Big Top concerts into living rooms across the country and around the world via internet streaming and podcasts. Our resident band, the Blue Canvas Orchestra, also tours to theaters and schools throughout the Upper Midwest. Over the course of 30 years we’ve touched millions of lives and created millions of memories with our eclectic blend of excellent musical offerings.
View recent Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua Annual Reports: 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | 2015 | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011

Join the Blue Canvas Club

Annual donors of $125 or more have the opportunity to purchase tickets a full week before they go on sale to the general public. Get the best seats in the tent PLUS a 10% discount on Big Top merchandise! Don't wait — we begin announcing shows for the upcoming season in November!
  • Join the Blue Canvas Club HERE

Join the Heritage Society

A legacy gift to Big Top Chautauqua is a unique opportunity to demonstrate your lasting support of music under the canvas tent. Your legacy gift to Big Top Chautauqua helps ensure that excellent performance and magic of Big Top continue for coming generations.
  • Learn more HERE, or call 715-373-5552

Join The KEEPERS

Big Top is pleased to have a leadership circle of contributors who “stand watch” over the organization, providing financial support to be used for long-term planning needs. The goal of The KEEPERS is to ensure the longevity of Big Top and the music, arts and culture it provides for the people of the Northwoods.
KEEPER donations are designated gifts of $1,000 and up. Benefits of being a KEEPER are invitations to special events at the Big Top and throughout the region.
  • Join The KEEPERS HERE

Sponsor a Show

Show sponsors are an important to Big Top Chautauqua’s ability to bring diverse performers to the tent stage. A show sponsorship is a great way to support Big Top and get a one-of-a-kind experience. Sponsor benefits include front row tickets, recognition in print pieces and online, and special perks like signed concert posters and entertaining opportunities!
  • Learn more about show sponsorship opportunities HERE

Contribute stocks or securities to Big Top

Gifts of securities can be made directly from your broker to:
EdwardJones
DTC # 0057
Account # 54606643
Cole Nichols
419 Lake Shore Drive E
Ashland, WI 54806
715-292-6556
cole.nichols@edwardjones.com

EIN (also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number) # 39-1548887

Volunteer

Each season Big Top relies on over 200 volunteers to work as ushers, park cars, sell tickets, and fill many other roles. Volunteer support is essential to our yearly success. New volunteers are always needed!
  • Learn more about Volunteering HERE​

Gifts of all sizes are needed and appreciated
Thank you for keeping the magic of Big Top alive and well. Salute!

Your support helps Big Top present the excellent entertainment and educational that you, and so many others, discover and are inspired by each year under the canvas tent. Gifts of all sizes are needed and appreciated. Thank you so much for your support.
  • Give online HERE, call 715-373-5552, or mail your gift to: PO Box 455, Washburn, WI 54891
For more information please contact Kate Barido, Advancement Director
715-373-5520 or development@bigtop.org