Big Top Chautauqua

BIG
TOP
CHAUTAUQUA
L A K E
S U P E R I O R
THE 2015 SEASON IS UNDERWRITTEN BY THE BAYFIELD INN
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Tickets and Information: www.bigtop.org | 715-373-5552
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Dance Alert We never know when joyous dancing or standing may break out. We try to make it fun for everyone.
If you are not a dancer and don’t want to be caught behind one, try choosing seats in the mid-center or back sections.
2
Welcome to Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua
Big Top Chautauqua is a non-profit organization boasting 29 years of producing and presenting cultural activities that are both entertaining and
educational. We present a diverse range of excellent performances during the summer in a beautiful 900-seat all canvas tent located just south
of Bayfield. Shows recorded at the tent are broadcast year-round on Tent Show Radio, available throughout the country on public radio
stations. And our celebrated house band, the Blue Canvas Orchestra, performs on tour throughout the region.
Located 3 miles south of Bayfield off scenic HWY 13 in northern Wisconsin
Tent: 32525 Ski Hill Rd., Mt. Ashwabay, Bayfield, WI 54814 Office: 101 West Bayfield Street, PO Box 455, Washburn, WI 54891
FOR TICKETS, INFO & LINKS, go to www.bigtop.org or CAll 715-373-5552
R e q u e s t a FREE
Visitor Guide at
b ay f i e l d . o r g o r
pick one up at
42 S. Broad St.
in Bayfield
CALENDAR OF EVENTS:
B AY F I E L D . O R G / E V E N T S
FRUIT & BERRY UPDATE:
B AY F I E L D . O R G / O R C H A R D S
LODGING AVAILABILITY:
B AY F I E L D . O R G / L O D G I N G
NAMED ONE OF THE 20 BEST SMALL TOWNS TO VISIT IN 2015
BY SMITHSONIAN MAGAZINE
Tickets and Information: www.bigtop.org | 715-373-5552
3
Salute to our 2015 Season Sponsor:
Thanks to our Media Partner:
Operational and Program Grant Support Provided by:
TO PROVIDE CREATIVE AND INNOVATIVE EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES IN WASHBURN
CHEQUAMEGON BAY AREA
Big Top performances are supported in part by a grant
from the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of
Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Supported by the Arts Midwest Touring Fund, a program
of Arts Midwest which is generously supported by
the National Endowment for the Arts with additional
contributions
from the Wisconsin Arts Board
Washburn
Community
Education Foundation
Support for the Blue Canvas Orchestra Original Shows provided by Sheldon and Peggy Goldberg
MADE IN U.S.A.
Banjo...
Play it. Love it.
goodtimebanjos.com
4
2015 SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE
JUNE
13 MICHAEL FRANTI & SPEARHEAD
18 BLUE CANVAS ORCHESTRA (BCO) IN CONCERT
19 NEW FIRST NIGHT w/ PETER YARROW and BCO
20 BIG TOP OPRY
23 PIE & POLITICS 5:00PM
25 SHANTIES & SHIPWRECKS
26 HOME FREE
27 BALLET FOLKLÓRICO NACIONAL of MILWAUKEE 1:00PM
27 JIM BELUSHI and THE BOARD OF COMEDY
28 MELISSA ETHERIDGE: THIS IS M.E. SOLO
JULY
2 TAKE ME TO THE ISLANDS
3 GAELIC STORM
5 KENNY ROGERS
9 ARLO GUTHRIE
10 WARREN NELSON & FRIENDS
11 PATTY GRIFFIN, MAVIS STAPLES & AMY HELM
12 JEFFERY BROUSSARD & THE CREOLE COWBOYS 1:00PM
12 SHANTIES & SHIPWRECKS
16 BIG TOP OPRY
17 GRAMMY WINNER PETER FRAMPTON 18 THE CHARLIE DANIELS BAND w/ THE CACTUS BLOSSOMS
19 RIDING THE WIND
23 THE MAVERICKS
24 BELFAST TO BLUEGRASS
25 KAHULANUI: HAWAII’S KINGS OF SWING
26 GARRISON KEILLOR
30 LYLE LOVETT AND HIS LARGE BAND
31 BCO’s SALUTE TO BRUCE BURNSIDE
AuGUST
1 COREY CARLSON
2 BELFAST TO BLUEGRASS
4 BRANDI CARLILE w/ ANDERSON EAST
6 THE WAILIN’ JENNYS
7 KEB’ MO’ 8 MU DAIKO JAPANESE DRUMMERS 1:00PM
8 TAKE ME TO THE ISLANDS
9 HOT RIZE
13 THE HIGH KINGS w/ KEEP ‘ER LIT
14 BIG TOP IDOL
15 TAB BENOIT 16 VIC FERRARI’S SYMPHONY ON THE ROCKS 18-20 BLUEGRASS CAMP FOR KIDS 9:30AM – 3:30PM
20 THE BAREFOOT MOVEMENT w/ TIN CAN GIN
21 BIG TOP OPRY
22 BELFAST TO BLUEGRASS
23 VINCE GILL
27 BLUE CANVAS ORCHESTRA IN CONCERT
28 MICHAEL PERRY and RONNY COX
29 GREG BROWN
SEPtember
4 RIDING THE WIND
5 PAULA POUNDSTONE
6 BRULÉ w/ NATIVE EXPRESSIONS DRUM & DANCE 1:00PM
6 BRULÉ & AIRO
10 LARRY LONG presents AMERICAN ROOTS REVUE
11 RIDERS IN THE SKY w/ THE QUEBE SISTERS
12 CIRQUE ZUMA ZUMA AFRICAN ACROBATS 1:00PM
12 OLD LAST NIGHT / MICHAEL PERRY / BCO / QUEBE SISTERS
18 CLOUD CULT w/ HORSESHOES & HAND GRENADES
19 BIGTAP CHAUTAUQUAFEST at Mt. Ashwabay 1:00PM – 5:00PM
Showtimes — unless otherwise noted:
June – August 7:30PM, September 7:00PM, Matinees 1:00PM
Program subject to change
FOR TICKETS & INFO, Go to www.bigtop.org or CAll 715-373-5552
FREE FAMILY MATINEES
6/27 BALLET FOLKLÓRICO
NACIONAL of MILWAUKEE
7/12 JEFFERY BROUSSARD
& THE CREOLE COWBOYS
8/8 MU DAIKO
JAPANESE DRUMMERS
9/6 BRULÉ with NATIVE EXPRESSIONS
DRUM & DANCE
9/12 CIRQUE ZUMA ZUMA
AFRICAN ACROBATS
No tickets necessary. Everyone is welcome! Shows begin at 1:00PM.
Join us under the Big Top for our free performances that are fun for all
ages. The cost of bringing these performances to you is underwritten
by our generous sponsors and grantors. Salute to these wonderful
community members!
Apostle
Islands
Booksellers
Deb and Jeff Lewis
tle Islands
Book
Sellers,
Apostle
Islands
Cruises
The Inn on Madeline Island
Bayview
Motel,
Ashland
Daily
Press BMO Harris Bank, Chequamegon
Memorial Medical Center
Bay Area
Community Fund, Chippewa Valley Bank,
Bayview
Motel
New Moon Ski and Bike Shop
BMO
Bank
Norvado Island, Memorial
RuthHarris
Goetz,
Deb and Jeff Lewis, The Inn on Madeline
Bodin’s
Inc.Center, New Moon Ski and Bike Shop,The
PinehurstThe
Inn Pinehurst
Medical
Norvado,
Chequamegon Bay Area Community Fund
Karen Traut
Inn, Karen
Traut,
Chippewa
Valley
Bank
Von Holzen Chevrolet
Essentia Health – Ashland Clinic
Ruth Goetz
Washburn IGA
Free Shuttle – New This Year!
Bayfield – Free, round trip shuttle service courtesy of Seagull Bay Motel
in Bayfield. No reservations needed for this route — pickup times p. 24.
Bad River, Ashland, and Washburn – Free, round trip shuttle service
made possible by the Chequamegon Bay Area Community Fund, an
affiliate of the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation with
support from the Bad River Lodge & Casino. Reservation only with
limited pick-up and drop off locations, call 715-373-5552.
Native American Community Connections
Northern Wisconsin is home to a rich cultural heritage; we honor
this culture in several events at the tent. Most events are free and open
to the public. Events with an asterisk require a ticket to the evening
performance. For information go to www.bigtop.org or call 715-373-5552.
The Wigwam Project led by Michael Charette/Laughing Fox
6/12-13 Constructing a traditional Ojibwa Wigwam 6/27, 8/1, 9/6, 9/10 Wigwam Discussions Bluegrass Camp for Kids
Aug. 18 – 20, 9:30AM – 3:30PM each day Ages 8-19 recommended.
Tuition: $150 Early Registration / $175 after July 1 (scholarships available)
A well rounded camp, instructors will teach everything from
individual instruments (beginning through advanced), to singing,
and songwriting. Children gain a love for traditional music and new
skills that will last them their entire lifetime.
Visit www.bigtop.org for Bluegrass Camp for Kids info.
Blessing of the tent with Gerry DePerry and Frank Montano 6/18*
Native American Flute Workshop with Darren Thompson 6/27 2PM
Birchbark crafts with April Stone Dahl 7/12 2PM
Leather pouch making with Kathy Kae 8/1 2PM
Dreamcatcher making with Katrina Werschouski 8/8 2PM
Native Expressions dance lesson 9/6
Blessing of the Water Gathering with Waubanewquay Day,
Penny Charette, Larry Long & Friends 9/9 6:30PM
Our Shared Planet exhibit by wildlife artist Jim Ramsdell 9/9-10
Native Expressions Drum & Dance on the grounds 9/6, 9/10
Thanks to The Apostle Islands Area Community Fund, an affiliate of the
Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation for supporting this cultural series.
Tickets and Information: www.bigtop.org | 715-373-5552
5
MEET THE BLUE CANVAS ORCHESTRA
The Blue Canvas Orchestra (BCO) is Chautauqua’s house band
that, together with co-founder and Visuals Director Betty Ferris,
provides the entertainment engine that powers the Big Top. The
BCO is comprised of Jane Aleckson, Phil Anich, Severin Behnen,
Bruce Bowers, Bruce Burnside, Jack Gunderson, Tom Mitchell
and Ed Willett and is regularly joined by special guest performers.
Blue Canvas Orchestra & Singers
Jane Aleckson Phillip Anich Severin Behnen
Bruce Bowers Bruce Burnside
Jack Gunderson Tom Mitchell Ed Willett Bass, Vocals BCO in Concert, New First Night,
Big Top Opry, Shanties & Shipwrecks, Belfast to Bluegrass,
Salute to Bruce Burnside, Old Last Night
Vocals BCO in Concert, New First Night, Big Top Opry,
Shanties & Shipwrecks, Salute to Bruce Burnside,
Take Me To the Islands, Riding the Wind, Old Last Night
Vocals, Accordion, Piano BCO in Concert, New First Night, Big Top Opry, Shanties & Shipwrecks, Belfast to Bluegrass,
Salute to Bruce Burnside, Take Me To the Islands,
Riding the Wind, Old Last Night
Violin BCO in Concert, New First Night, Old Last Night
Banjo, Mandolin, Vocals BCO in Concert, New First Night, Shanties & Shipwrecks, Salute to Bruce Burnside,
Old Last Night
Vocals, Bass BCO in Concert, New First Night, Big Top Opry, Shanties & Shipwrecks, Salute to Bruce Burnside,
Take Me To the Islands, Riding the Wind, Old Last Night
Percussion, Vocals BCO in Concert, New First Night,
Big Top Opry, Shanties & Shipwrecks, Belfast to Bluegrass,
Salute to Bruce Burnside, Take Me To the Islands,
Riding the Wind, Old Last Night
Cello, Guitar, Vocals BCO in Concert, New First Night,
Take Me To the Islands, Riding the Wind, Old Last Night
Musical Direction
Severin Behnen
Ed Willett New First Night, Big Top Opry, Shanties & Shipwrecks, Belfast to Bluegrass, Salute to Bruce Burnside,
Take Me to the Islands
BCO in Concert, Riding the Wind, Old Last Night
Visuals Director
Betty Ferris Directors
Warren Nelson Liz Woodworth Guest Artists
Don Albrecht Emily Belanger Corey Carlson BCO in Concert, New First Night,
Riding the Wind, Big Top Opry,
Shanties & Shipwrecks,
Belfast to Bluegrass,
Salute to Bruce Burnside, Old Last Night
Take Me To The Islands,
Riding the Wind
Betty Ferris
Big Top Opry, Shanties & Shipwrecks, Belfast to Bluegrass
Photographer Riding the Wind
Vocals Big Top Opry
Guitar and Vocals BCO in Concert, New First Night,
Big Top Opry, Old Last Night
Michael Charette Storyteller Take Me To the Islands
Andy Dee Guitar and Dobro Salute to Bruce Burnside
Gerry DePerry Storyteller Riding the Wind,
Blessing of the Tent – 6/18
Danielle Diamond Vocals BCO in Concert, New First Night, Big Top Opry, Riding the Wind
Tom Draughon Guitar, Banjo, Vocals Shanties & Shipwrecks,
Salute to Bruce Burnside, Belfast to Bluegrass
Cheryl Leah Vocals Take Me To the Islands
Stevie Matier Bodhran and Vocals Shanties & Shipwrecks,
Belfast to Bluegrass
Otis McLennon Harmonica and Vocals Riding the Wind,
Take Me To the Islands
Frank Montano Flute Blessing of the Tent – 6/18
Warren Nelson Vocals and Guitar Riding the Wind, Take Me To the Islands
Rowan Nelson-Ferris Guitar and Banjo Riding the Wind, Take Me To the Islands
Harrison Olk Banjo and Vocals Belfast to Bluegrass
Laurie Otis Storytelling Old Last Night
Nori Perrine Violin Shanties & Shipwrecks, Belfast to Bluegrass
Michael Perry Vocals, Guitar and Storytelling Old Last Night
Randy Sabien Violin, Banjo, Vocals New First Night, Big Top Opry
Joe Savage Steel Guitar New First Night, Big Top Opry
Molly Stoddard Violin, Vocals Belfast to Bluegrass, BCO In Concert (8/27), Old Last Night
Mary Lou Williams Vocals Riding the Wind, Take Me To the Islands, Belfast to Bluegrass
Liesel Wilson
Violin Salute to Bruce Burnside
cast subject to change
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BIG TOP ORIGINAL PRODUCTIONS
Join us for our own unique brand of shows that feature songs and stories performed by Big Top’s
Blue Canvas Orchestra and Singers that bear the hallmark of exquisite musicianship illustrated by
big-screen visuals.
This year we debut a new musical show that traces the transformation of Celtic music brought to
America from the North of Ireland as it becomes the roots of American Bluegrass in “Belfast to
Bluegrass.” Other historical musicals this year include Warren Nelson’s “Take Me To The Islands,”
an illustrated history of the Apostle Islands, “Shanties & Shipwrecks,” our celebration of sailing
and sailors, and “Riding the Wind,” the illustrated history of Bayfield. We also reprise last year’s
hugely successful “Big Top Opry” which celebrates classic Country and Western songs by the likes
of Hank Williams and Patsy Cline. Then there are our variety nights: “BCO in Concert,” ”New First
Night,” ”BCO’s Salute to Bruce Burnside” and “Old Last Night.” This is when the band gets to cut
loose and play their favorite songs from their 30 summers on the Big Top stage.
You haven’t fully experienced the Big Top until you’ve seen the Original Shows and
our amazing Blue Canvas Orchestra!
• Artisan Breads • Desserts & Pastries
• Deli • Catering • Wedding Cakes
www.ashlandbakingco.com
715-682-6010
FIND US
ON
M-Sat 7am-6pm Sun 8am-5pm
212 Chapple Ave, Ashland WI 54806
BIG TOP On Tour
Our Blue Canvas Orchestra takes the show on the road
to venues throughout the region. Join us at the tent or in
a community near you!
JUN 21, 2015
Big Top Opry
Dillman’s Bay Resort
Lac Du Flambeau, WI
715-588-3143 | www.dillmansbco.org
OCT 2–4, 2015
Blue Canvas Orchestra In Concert
Bayfield Apple Festival
Bayfield, WI
715-779-3335 | www.bayfield.org
DEC 12, 2015
Blue Canvas Christmas
StageNorth, Washburn, WI
715-373-5552 | www.bigtop.org
Visit www.bigtop.org for continually added shows.
Tickets and Information: www.bigtop.org | 715-373-5552
7
2015 Season Schedule
MICHAEL FRANTI & SPEARHEAD
ONCE A DAY TOUR
Opening set by: Nattali Rize & Notis
Sat. JUN 13, 7:30PM
Musician, filmmaker and humanitarian, Michael Franti
is recognized as a pioneering force using music as a vehicle
for positive change. His unforgettable, high energy shows
with his band, Spearhead, draw on the music of hip hop,
reggae, funk and rap. “Music is sunshine,” says Franti,
“music gives us new energy and a stronger sense of
purpose.” Nattali Rize is an ever-evolving, dynamic front
woman and solo artist known for her high energy live
performances; she describes her reggae-influenced music
as world beat/lyrical/new era.
All Reserved $47 Box Seats $62
Dance Alert
Sponsored by: Quito’s Gazebo of Cane Garden Bay, Tortola,
Star North of Cornucopia and Fiorio Wealth Advisors
BLUE CANVAS ORCHESTRA IN
CONCERT
Thu. JUN 18, 7:30PM
On the eve of the official opening night
of the season, we’re cutting the band
loose on some of their favorite songs
from the upcoming season and from
summers past. Musical Director Ed
Willett leads the famed house band
that has graced the Big Top stage since
its founding in 1986. They are an
eclectic blend of string instruments,
driving rhythm section, and stunning voices that together rock the tent with their
unique fusion of bluegrass, folk and jazzy blues. Big screen visuals accompany the songs
creating a full sensory experience that is the signature of our original, historical and
environmental musicals.
Adults $22/Ages 4-17 $11 Box Seats $37 Also plays 8/27
NEW FIRST NIGHT w/ PETER YARROW
and BLUE CANVAS ORCHESTRA
Fri. JUN 19, 7:30PM
Join us for the official OPENING NIGHT of the 2015 Summer
Season! Special guest Peter Yarrow is a legendary musician,
songwriter and activist who is best known as one-third of
the incomparable folk group Peter, Paul & Mary. He weaves
a narrative of his life in music and politics. Peter sings and
talks about his life in Greenwich Village in the 1960s, his
connections to Bob Dylan & Pete Seeger and his life as part
of the multi-platinum and gold-selling trio; he also weaves in
his passion for the causes of peace, the environment, gender
equality, education and other important human issues. Our
celebrated house band, The Blue Canvas Orchestra, led by
Severin Behnen, has been entertaining Big Top audiences
since 1986.
$22/$28/$38 Box Seats $53
Sponsored by: BMO Harris Bank
Media partner: Wisconsin Public Radio
BIG TOP OPRY
Sat. JUN 20, 7:30PM
The Blue Canvas Orchestra re-creates the
music of The Opry’s legendary performers
such as Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, Marty
Robbins and The Carter Family. Debuting
in 2014, this show is a resounding hit.
Severin Behnen wrote the show and leads
the band. Corey Carlson, our own musical
chameleon, assisted Behnen in the
creation of the show and is featured
along with guests Randy Sabien, Joe
Savage, Danielle Diamond and Emily Belanger in this nostalgic and entertaining romp
through the best Western songs from the heydays of The Grand Ole Opry.
Adults $22/Ages 4-17 $11 Box Seats $37
Sponsored by: Heidi and Terry Anderson
Sponsored by: LBS Insurance Group and West Bend Mutual Insurance
Dance Alert We never know when joyous dancing or standing may break out. We try to make it fun for everyone.
If you are not a dancer and don’t want to be caught behind one, try choosing seats in the mid-center or back sections.
8
2015 Season Schedule
PIE & POLITICS – A Commitment to Community
Tue. JUN 23
5:00PM – 6:15PM – Local Organization Booths
6:30PM – 7:30PM – Speaker Presentations
Join us for our annual community sustainability forum
to learn about what it takes to create a vibrant, resilient
and sustainable community. This year’s event features
several speakers working to protect water, air and public
health in their communities: Michele Merkel, co-director
of Food & Water Justice, the legal arm of Food & Water
Watch; Lynn Henning, farmer and environmentalist from
Michigan, Lynn was awarded the Goldman
Environmental Prize in 2010 for her work fighting
pollution from concentrated animal feeding facilities; and Sarah Lloyd of Wisconsin Dells
farms with her husband and his family in Columbia County. Sarah also works for the
Wisconsin Farmers Union on local and regional food system development.
FREE – No Ticket Required
Sponsored by: Alliance for Sustainability, Farms not Factories,
HOME FREE
Fri. JUN 26, 7:30PM
Country a capella band Home Free
was crowned Champion of NBC’s
“The Sing-Off” in 2013 launching them
onto the national spotlight. The group,
hailing from Mankato, Minnesota, was
founded by brothers Chris and Adam
Rupp during their college years when
they performed at countless state and
county fairs, college campuses and in
theaters across the country. Home Free
continues to entertain audiences nationwide with their high-energy show peppered
with quick-witted humor that meshes Nashville standards with pop hits dipped
in country flavor.
$28/$38/$48 Box Seats $63
Sponsored by: Kylmala Truss
and the Socially Responsible Agricultural Project
SHANTIES & SHIPWRECKS
Thu. JUN 25, 7:30PM
Come sail the Great Lakes and the
seven seas with Big Top Chautauqua’s
Blue Canvas Orchestra. Shanties &
Shipwrecks draws on the bountiful
collection of sea shanties, sailing songs
and rowdy sailors-in-port songs that
have come down through time from
those that roamed the great waters
aboard vessels of wood with canvas
sails. Of course not all of the wayfaring
men returned to dry land. Hear their tales too in song, story and big screen pictures.
If you’re looking for a great adventure, a good-timing, rousing night of great music –
climb aboard the big ship Chautauqua.
Adults $22/Ages 4-17 $11 Box Seats $37
Also plays 7/12
Sponsored by: Midland Services, Inc. serving Northern Wisconsin
and the Western U.P.
CLO
LEARN TO DRIVE YO UR OWN T EAM
or ride along with one of our experienced guides
during a hands-on 4 hour or 2.5 hour dog sled trip.
We offer dog sledding trips for all ages and abilities.
BALLET FOLKLÓRICO NACIONAL
OF MILWAUKEE
Sat. JUN 27, 1:00PM
An innovative and theatrical body of dancers brings
authentic Mexican folkloric dance and traditional Aztec
dance to the stage. Ballet Folklórico Nacional conveys
tradition, art, culture, and history to its audiences,
lighting up the stage with dazzling costumes and colorful
depictions of Mexico’s diverse culture. Their repertoire
of regional dances includes Michoacan, Durango,
Veracruz, Chiapas, Yucatan, Sonora, Norte, Oaxaca
and Jalisco including “Floreo de Soga” Trick Roping.
FREE - No Tickets Required
Sponsored by: Essentia Health – Ashland Clinic,
Apostle Islands Booksellers, Apostle Islands Cruises,
Ashland Daily Press, Bayview Motel, BMO Harris Bank,
Bodin’s Inc, Chequamegon Bay Area Community Fund,
Chippewa Valley Bank, Ruth Goetz, Deb and Jeff Lewis,
The Inn on Madeline Island, Memorial Medical Center,
New Moon Ski and Bike Shop, Norvado, The Pinehurst
Inn, Karen Traut, Von Holzen Chevrolet, Washburn IGA
T H I N G & A DV E N T U R E
OPEN DAILY
YEAR ROUND
100 rittenhouse ave.
SAI L T H E APOST LE ISLANDS
with a USCG Licensed Captain. Take the wheel or
just relax while exploring the sea caves and wild beauty
of Lake Superior. Hour long trips to multi-day sailing
vacations for couples, families and small groups.
i n BAY F I ELD, W I
715-779-5561
wolfsongadventures.com
howlinbayfield.com
dreamcatcher-sailing.com
Tickets and Information: www.bigtop.org | 715-373-5552
9
2015 Season Schedule
JIM BELUSHI
and THE BOARD OF COMEDY
Sat. JUN 27, 7:30PM
An alumnus of Saturday Night Live,
Chicago’s famed Second City, and ABC’s
hit comedy “According to Jim,” Jim
Belushi is now bringing to the stage an
improvised comedy sketch show
featuring members of the Board of
Comedy. Accompanying Belushi are
Megan Grano, Larry Joe Campbell,
Brad Morris, and Joshua Funk, all of
whom are classically trained professional improvisers who tour regularly nationwide.
And—according to Jim: “We are not stand-up comedians. Most of the fun we have on
stage comes from our inclusion of the audience – we get suggestions from them to
begin each scene we perform…It’s less a show and more a party.”
$48/$60/$72 Box Seats $87
TAKE ME TO THE ISLANDS
Thu. JUL 2, 7:30PM
Chautauqua Founder, Warren Nelson,
brings his latest production back to
the Big Top stage after debuting it to
great acclaim in 2014. “Take Me To The
Islands” is an original musical celebration
of the Apostle Islands. Like “Riding the
Wind,” it is a multi-media extravaganza
featuring an all-star band. “This show is
a people’s history of those who
immigrated here, a portrait of daily life, work and play, from the Ojibwa’s arrival to
present day, a song of why we all love it here,” says Nelson.
Adults $22/Ages 4-17 $11 Box Seats $37
Also plays 8/8
Sponsored by: Apostle Islands Historic Preservation Conservancy
Sponsored by: C.G. Bretting Manufacturing Co., Inc.
MELISSA ETHERIDGE:
THIS IS M.E. SOLO
Sun. JUN 28, 7:30PM
Academy Award and Grammy-winning
artist, Melissa Etheridge, will take the
stage to perform songs from her new
album, This Is M.E., as well as some
of her greatest hits like “Come to My
Window,” “I’m The Only One,” “Bring
Me Some Water” and “I Want To Come
Over.” Known for her iconic voice,
profound lyrics and riveting stage
presence, Melissa will share personal stories about her remarkable journey through
life and the inspiration behind some of her most beloved songs.
$70/$89/$99 Box Seats $114
Dance Alert
Sponsored by: Washburn IGA and Pier Plaza/The Bayfront Inn
GAELIC STORM
Fri. JUL 3, 7:30PM
Over the course of 10 albums and
nearly 3,000 live shows, Gaelic Storm —
the chart-topping, multi-national Celtic
band — is dishing up a hearty serving
of Full Irish - The Best of Gaelic Storm.
The latest album spans the bulk of the
band’s career, mixing crowd favorites
and concert staples with three previously unreleased recordings, including
“Whiskey in the Jar” and “Irish Party
in Third Class” from Titanic. Full Irish is the band’s fifth consecutive #1 Billboard World
Album. Regularly playing more than 120 shows a year, Gaelic Storm has built a loyal
following for their cross between traditional Irish music and harder-edged
Celtic rock.
$26/$30/$39 Box Seats $54
Dance Alert
Sponsored by: Fiorio Wealth Advisors and Northern State Bank
MPR IS
WHERE
you ARE.
Find your
frequency,
stream online
or get mobile
apps at mpr.org.
AND FIND NEW MUSIC AT THECURRENT.ORG
10
2015 Season Schedule
KENNY ROGERS
Opening set by: TBA
Sun. JUL 5, 7:30PM
The legendary Kenny Rogers is an iconic singer,
songwriter, actor, and of course…The Gambler. For
more than five decades, Rogers has delivered amazing
songs and heartfelt performances with rare storytelling
ability, recording twenty-four #1 hits and selling over 120
million albums worldwide. Everyone knows these
ubiquitous hits: “Lady,” “Ruby Don’t Take Your Love to
Town,” “The Gambler,” “Lucille,” “She Believes in Me,”
“Islands in the Stream,” and “We’ve Got Tonight.” The
rich vocals on each of these Top 40 hits are instantly
identifiable as the smooth, rich voice of Grammy winner
and Country Music Hall of Famer Kenny Rogers.
WARREN NELSON & FRIENDS
Fri. JUL 10, 7:30PM
Warren Nelson is the “Father of Lake Superior Big Top
Chautauqua” having, as he says, “thunk it up” all those
years ago. Warren stood as the ringmaster of the canvas
tent show for nearly 25 years, he wrote and co-wrote
some of our most beloved original productions and
compositions. His songs still resonate from the tent at
the hands of the Blue Canvas Orchestra. We welcome
the self-proclaimed “Song and Chance Man” back to the
stage for a grand night of music and memories.
$20/$26/$29 Box Seats $44
Sponsored by: Mary H. Rice
$78/$94/$110 Box Seats $125
Sponsored by: Northern Clearing Inc.
ARLO GUTHRIE
Thu. JUL 9, 7:30PM
Arlo Guthrie was born with a guitar in one hand and a
harmonica in the other, the eldest son of America’s most
beloved singer/writer/philosopher Woody Guthrie. He
returns to Big Top to celebrate the 50th Anniversary
of the event that inspired his seminal song, “Alice’s
Restaurant Massacree.” “I didn’t think I was gonna live
long enough to have to learn ‘Alice’s Restaurant’ again,”
Arlo Guthrie said in a statement announcing the tour.
Guthrie will also present material from throughout his
career. We’re pleased to welcome Arlo back to the tent
for his 7th appearance at Big Top Chautauqua.
$55/$68/$78 Box Seats $93 Sponsored by:
Flamingos Up North: Wild Rice Restaurant, Maggie’s & The Egg Toss Café
PATTY GRIFFIN, MAVIS STAPLES &
AMY HELM Sat. JUL 11, 7:30PM
Sweet Harmony Soul – a night of blues,
pop, folk, gospel, rock and SOUL WITH A
CAPITAL S-0-U-L, featuring a trio of
legendary ladies including Grammy
Award-Winner Patty Griffin, Rock and
Roll Hall of Famer Mavis Staples and
Singer-songwriter and member of The
Levon Helm Band, Amy Helm. Whether
performing solo, in super groups with
Emmy Lou Harris or as part of Band of Joy
with Robert Plant, Patty Griffin’s singing
is as unmistakable and inimitable as her
songwriting. Mavis Staples has been named one of the 100 Greatest Women of Rock
and Roll by VH1 and one of the 100 Greatest Singers of All Time by Rolling Stone. For
six decades, Staples has been a mainstay of American music alongside the family group
The Staple Singers.
$44/$56/$68 Box Seats $83
Sponsored by: Motion to Go on Madeline Island
Tickets and Information: www.bigtop.org | 715-373-5552
11
2015 Season Schedule
JEFFERY BROUSSARD
& THE CREOLE COWBOYS
Sun. JUL 12, 1:00PM
If you’re looking for something that has you moving
in your seat as soon as the music starts, then look no
further! Louisiana native, Jeffery Broussard creates
incredible music and outstanding performances with
accordion mastery and soulful vocals. The band delivers
great, pack-the-floor renditions of Creole classics and
Cajun-style covers as well as their own brand of
contemporary Zydeco.
FREE - No Tickets Required
Sponsored by: Essentia Health – Ashland Clinic,
Apostle Islands Booksellers, Apostle Islands Cruises,
Ashland Daily Press, Bayview Motel, BMO Harris Bank,
Bodin’s Inc, Chequamegon Bay Area Community Fund,
Chippewa Valley Bank, Ruth Goetz, Deb and Jeff Lewis,
The Inn on Madeline Island, Memorial Medical Center,
New Moon Ski and Bike Shop, Norvado, The Pinehurst
Inn, Karen Traut, Von Holzen Chevrolet, Washburn IGA
SHANTIES & SHIPWRECKS
Sun. JUL 12, 7:30PM
Come sail the Great Lakes and the
seven seas with Big Top Chautauqua’s
Blue Canvas Orchestra. Shanties &
Shipwrecks draws on the bountiful
collection of sea shanties, sailing songs
and rowdy sailors-in-port songs that
have come down through time from
those that roamed the great waters
aboard vessels of wood with canvas
sails. Of course not all of the wayfaring
men returned to dry land. Hear their tales too in song, story and big screen pictures.
If you’re looking for a great adventure, a good-timing, rousing night of great music –
climb aboard the big ship Chautauqua.
Adults $22/Ages 4-17 $11 Box Seats $37
Also plays 6/25
Sponsored by: Chippewa Valley Bank
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Friday thru Sunday, June 19 thru 21
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Friday thru Sunday, July 24 thru 26
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12
BIG TOP OPRY
Thu. JUL 16, 7:30PM
The Blue Canvas Orchestra re-creates the
music of The Opry’s legendary performers
such as Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, Marty
Robbins and The Carter Family. Debuting
in 2014, this show is a resounding hit.
Severin Behnen wrote the show and leads
the band. Corey Carlson, our own musical
chameleon, assisted Behnen in the
creation of the show and is featured along
with guests Randy Sabien, Joe Savage,
Danielle Diamond and Emily Belanger in this nostalgic and entertaining romp through
the best Western songs from the heydays of The Grand Ole Opry.
Adults $22/Ages 4-17 $11 Box Seats $37
Also plays 6/20 and 8/21
Sponsored by: Don Nelson
Grammy Winner PETER FRAMPTON
Fri. JUL 17, 7:30PM Grammy winner Peter Frampton remains one of the
most celebrated artists and guitarists in rock history. At
18, he co-founded one of the first super groups, Humble
Pie. His session work includes collaborations with such
legendary artists as George Harrison, Harry Nilsson,
David Bowie, and Ringo Starr. His fifth solo album,
the electrifying Frampton Comes Alive!, is one of the
top-selling live records of all time. Hits from this seminal
1976 rock album include “Baby, I Love Your Way,” “Do
You Feel Like We Do” and “Show Me the Way.”
$75/$95/$107 Box Seats $122
Sponsored by: Star North of Cornucopia
Dance Alert
2015 Season Schedule
THE CHARLIE DANIELS BAND
Opening set by: The Cactus Blossoms
Sat. JUL 18, 7:30PM
From his Dove Award winning gospel
albums to his genre-defining Southern
rock anthems and his CMA Awardwinning country hits, few artists have
left a more indelible mark on America’s
musical landscape than Charlie Daniels.
An outspoken patriot, beloved mentor
to young artists and still a road warrior
at age 77, Daniels is equal parts
Western and Southern. He is perhaps best known for his number one hit “The Devil
Went Down to Georgia,” which won a Grammy for Best Country Vocal Performance in
1979, as well as single of the year at the Country Music Association Awards. Daniels
was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry in 2008.
$50/$68/$78 Box Seats $93
Dance Alert
Sponsored by: Abby & Don Funk
THE MAVERICKS
Thu. JUL 23, 7:30PM
The Mavericks are back – touring
in support of their newest album
“MONO,” their second after a
decade-long musical hiatus. The
country-steeped garage band that
emerged from Miami in 1989 has
reunited and is embarking on a major
world tour. Two decades have passed
since their polyrhythmic brand of
post-modern country gave the world
“All You Ever Do Is Bring Me Down,” “Here Comes The Rain” and “Dance The Night
Away.” The band, led by the Cuban-born singer Raul Malo, has a vintage sound with a
genre-defying Tejano/Country/Roy Orbison vibe that creates an infectious energy
in their celebrated live performances.
$38/$49/$59 Box Seats $74
Dance Alert
Sponsored by: Haukaas Law Office, S.C.
RIDING THE WIND
Sun. JUL 19, 7:30PM
Ride the winds of time and have
fun while you learn in this classic
illuminated musical history of Bayfield
and the island environs, with secrets
of Red Cliff and Old LaPointe. Original
music and song-stories tell the tales
while the big screen shines with
hundreds of then and now photos
featuring Lightkeepers, Ojibway life,
dreamers & schemers, town scenes,
voyaguers, sailing, fishing, the big flood and more. Created in 1985 by Warren Nelson
and Betty Ferris (Nelson Ferris Concert Company,) Riding the Wind was the first show
performed on the Big Top Stage and is still a season highlight.
Adults $22/Ages 4-17 $11 Box Seats $37
Also plays 9/4
Sponsored by: Artesian House Bed & Breakfast and Ruth Goetz
BELFAST TO BLUEGRASS
DEBUT! Fri. JUL 24, 7:30PM
From the team that brought us
“Shanties & Shipwrecks” comes a
musical adventure of jigs and ballads
as they travel to the Appalachian
Mountains by way of a quarter of a
million Scots Irish. Before the United
States were formed, the inhabitants
were absorbing, merging and
transforming the ethnic sounds of its
people. Hear the changes in the
traditional Celtic tunes as bluegrass
and other genres are being born into
the world of our American musical
culture. Performed by the BCO and featuring special guests Stevie Matier, Molly
Stoddard, Harrison Olk, Tom Draughon, Nori Perrine and Mary Lou Williams.
Adults $22/Ages 4-17 $11 Box Seats $37
Also plays 8/2 and 8/22
Sponsored by: Joanne and Jim Collins
Tickets and Information: www.bigtop.org | 715-373-5552
13
2015 Season Schedule
KAHULANUI:
HAWAII’S KINGS OF SWING
Sat. JUL 25, 7:30PM
There is a new wave coming from
Hawaii, a blend of traditional music
and the Big Band Swing brought to the
Aloha State by U.S. servicemen during
World War II. Its leading exponent is
Kahulanui, a nine piece band—four
horns plus guitar, bass, ukulele, drums
and steel—whose energy and dynamic
arrangements have caused a sensation
throughout the Islands. Their debut CD, Hula Ku’I, was nominated for a 2014 Grammy
Award in the Regional Roots category. Kahulanui band leader, Lolena Naipo, Jr. found
inspiration from his Grandfather, Robert Kahulanui, who was a member of the Royal
Hawaiian Band during an era when horns and drums were a part of Hawaiian music.
$22/$36/$46 Box Seats $61 Pre-show Luau Dinner & Show $80
Hula Alert
Kids Half Price
Sponsored by: Haukaas Law Office, S.C.
GARRISON KEILLOR’S
A Prairie Home Companion
The America the Beautiful Tour
Sun. JUL 26, 7:30PM
Join the host of the
nationally-renowned public radio
program A Prairie Home Companion
as his troupe of actors and musicians
hit the road, making a stop at the Big
Top. The show will feature an evening
of jump jazz, sweet harmony, poetry
declamation, Guy Noir, words from our
Rhubarb, Catchup & Fearmonger sponsors, stories of course, and other classics from 41
years of radio. It’s always a special night when Garrison Keillor performs under the big,
blue canvas; this will be his 12th year performing at the tent since he first stepped on
our stage in 1992.
$44/$56/$70 Box Seats $85
Sponsored by: Memorial Medical Center
LYLE LOVETT AND HIS
LARGE BAND
Thu. JUL 30, 7:30PM
Lyle Lovett and his Large Band deliver
the most amazing night of classic
entertainment north of Texas. A 4-time
Grammy award-winner, Lovett is a
singer, composer and actor who has
broadened the definition of American
music in a career that spans 14 albums.
Along with his gift for storytelling and
a wry wit, the Texas-based musician
fuses elements of country, swing, jazz, folk, gospel and blues in a convention-defying
manner – and he’s joined by some of the most incredible musicians ever to grace our
stage. “If I Had A Boat,” “Don’t Touch My Hat,” “Cowboy Man,” “That’s Right You’re Not
From Texas.”
$75/$92/$105 Box Seats $120
Sponsored by: T.J. Jodarski and Pamela Henry
BLUE CANVAS ORCHESTRA’S
SALUTE TO BRUCE BURNSIDE
Fri. JUL 31, 7:30PM
Bandleader Severin Behnen leads our renowned house
band in a celebration of the music of Bruce Burnside.
Bruce has sat at the heart of the Blue Canvas Orchestra
and Big Top Chautauqua for all of our 29 plus years,
and was a founding member of Lost Nation String Band
before the tent was ever “thunk up.” As a prolific
composer, Bruce has brought many compositions and
shows to the tent including “Lincoln’s Living Legacy,”
”Stories For the Water,” and “Unsung Stories of the Civil
War.” We pay homage to Bruce and his music in a
retrospective of his work.
Adults $22/Ages 4-17 $11 Box Seats $37
Sponsored by: Myra Ehnert, Karen Traut, Patty & Arnie Carver,
Bob Durfey & Ann Barthelemy and Judy & Tom Manley
Right here in
the place we love.
We stand together boldly committed to your
health and dedicated to providing you with the
highest quality care close to everything you love.
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haywardmemorialhospital.com
2015 Season Schedule
COREY CARLSON
Sat. AUG 1, 7:30PM
BRANDI CARLILE
Opening set by: Anderson East
Tue. AUG 4, 7:30PM
One of our favorite performers at the Big Top is singer/
songwriter Brandi Carlile. Mixing musical genres from
folk to rock to alternative country infused with gospel,
Carlile is perhaps best known for her 2007 hit song
“The Story.” Lauded for her big, belting voice and her
well-crafted songs, Carlile is currently touring in support
of her just-released album The Firewatcher’s Daughter.
“My goal,” she says, “is to connect on a soul level with
our longtime fans and friends, and to reach new people
with the honesty of this music. Also, I would like my
daughter, Evangeline, to grow up and think I’m cool.”
Corey is our hometown boy, but he’s known and
celebrated far and wide. He grew up right here on this
very ski hill that is the home of the Big Top, and was
weaned on all of the legendary performers that have
graced this stage including the Blue Canvas Orchestra
where you can often find him sitting in. Carlson is a
prolific songwriter and exceptional musician whose
charismatic stage presence, amazingly versatile voice
and rock solid instrumentation make him a perennial
favorite. Corey performs his unique brand of rock, blues
& soul with The Big City Band.
Adults $22/Ages 4-17 $11 Box Seats $37
Sponsored by: Orion Labels LLC
$38/$49/$56 Box Seats $71
Dance Alert
BELFAST TO BLUEGRASS
Sun. AUG 2, 7:30PM
Sponsored by: Kelly & Crew and Motion to Go
THE WAILIN’ JENNYS
Thu. AUG 6, 7:30PM
From the team that brought us
“Shanties & Shipwrecks” comes a
musical adventure of jigs and ballads
as they travel to the Appalachian
Mountains by way of a quarter of a
million Scots Irish. Before the United
States were formed, the inhabitants
were absorbing, merging and
transforming the ethnic sounds of its
people. Hear the changes in the
traditional Celtic tunes as bluegrass
and other genres are being born into
the world of our American musical
culture. Performed by the BCO and featuring special guests Stevie Matier, Molly
Stoddard, Harrison Olk, Tom Draughon, Nori Perrine and Mary Lou Williams.
The Wailin’ Jennys are Nicky Mehta,
Ruth Moody and Heather Masse - three
distinct voices that together make an
achingly perfect vocal sound. Starting
as a happy accident of solo singer/
songwriters getting together for a
one-time-only performance at a tiny
guitar shop in Winnipeg, Manitoba,
The Wailin’ Jennys have grown over the
years into one of today’s most beloved
international folk/pop/world acts.
Bolstered by their frequent appearances
on Garrison Keillor’s public radio show
A Prairie Home Companion, The Jennys exploded onto the roots music scene,
performing at packed venues across Canada, the U.S. and throughout the world.
Sponsored by: The Washburn School Comrades: Theresa, Rick & Alan Seppa,
Sponsored by: CF Design, Ltd.
Adults $22/Ages 4-17 $11 Box Seats $37 Also plays 7/24 & 8/22
Therene Gazdik, Deborah Diamond- Nepstad & James Nepstad, and Heidi & Tim King
$22/$34/$44 Box Seats $59
Tickets and Information: www.bigtop.org | 715-373-5552
15
2015 Season Schedule
KEB’ MO’ Fri. AUG 7, 7:30PM
MU DAIKO JAPANESE DRUMMERS
Sat. AUG 8, 1:00PM
Keb’ Mo’ aka Kevin Moore is a 3-time Grammy winner
and one fine purveyor of down-and-rootsy blues who
has been described as “a living link to the seminal delta
blues that travelled up the Mississippi River and across
the expanse of America.” This year he embarks on a new
chapter in his career with the release of his latest album
BLUESAmericana which earned a Grammy nomination
for Best Americana Album. Over the past two decades
Keb’ has cultivated a reputation as a modern master of
American roots music through the understated excellence of his performances and his collaborations with
the likes of B.B. King, Bonnie Raitt and Jackson Browne.
$42/$56/$68 Box Seats $83
Sponsored by: Abby & Don Funk
TAKE ME TO THE ISLANDS
Sat. AUG 8, 7:30PM
Chautauqua Founder, Warren Nelson, brings his
latest production back to the Big Top stage after
debuting it to great acclaim in 2014. “Take Me
To The Islands” is an original musical celebration
of the Apostle Islands. Like “Riding the Wind,”
it is a multi-media extravaganza featuring an
all-star band. “This show is a people’s history of
those who immigrated here, a portrait of daily
life, work and play, from the Ojibwa’s arrival to
present day, a song of why we all love it here,”
says Nelson.
Adults $22/Ages 4-17 $11
Box Seats $37 Also plays 7/2
Sponsored by: Terry Panian
16
It’s all about the rhythm in this performance
born of arts from the heart of the Asian
American experience. Mu Daiko performs a
variety of traditional and contemporary works,
ranging from traditional Taiko repertoire (ancient
Japanese form of percussion using large drums)
to original pieces composed by its members.
The group regularly premieres new work at its
annual performances, continuing to stretch the
boundaries of the art form and contributing to
the innovation of American Taiko.
FREE - No Tickets Required
Sponsored by: Essentia Health – Ashland Clinic, Apostle Islands Booksellers, Apostle Islands Cruises,
Ashland Daily Press, Bayview Motel, BMO Harris Bank, Bodin’s Inc, Chequamegon Bay Area
Community Fund, Chippewa Valley Bank, Ruth Goetz, Deb and Jeff Lewis, The Inn on Madeline
Island, Memorial Medical Center, New Moon Ski and Bike Shop, Norvado, The Pinehurst Inn,
Karen Traut, Von Holzen Chevrolet, Washburn IGA
HOT RIZE
with Red Knuckles & The Trailblazers
Sun. AUG 9, 7:30PM
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 festival
circuit and far beyond. In 1990, Hot Rize won
the International Bluegrass Association’s first Entertainer of the Year Award. In 2014, they
released their much-anticipated studio album When I’m Free, their first in 24 years. Hot Rize
features Bryan Sutton, Tim O’Brien, Pete Wernick and Nick Forster.
$30/$38/$48 Box Seats $63
Sponsored by: Deep Water Grille and The Alley
2015 Season Schedule
THE HIGH KINGS
Opening set by: Keep ‘er Lit
Thu. AUG 13, 7:30PM
Ireland’s Folk Band of the Year, The High
Kings, is Finbarr Clancy, Brian Dunphy,
Martin Furey and Darren Holden.
Coming from accomplished musical
pedigrees, The High Kings grew up in
households soaked in the Irish musical
tradition. Since 2008, they have sold
out hundreds of shows in Ireland and
the US, made numerous TV
appearances, and achieved platinum status with their first two albums. The High
Kings are a phenomenal live band, showcasing their incredible versatility as
multi-instrumentalists, playing 13 instruments between them and bringing a rousing
acoustic flavor to brand new songs as well as old favorites.
$22/$32/$42 Box Seats $57
TAB BENOIT Sat. AUG 15, 7:30PM
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 Brother to the Blues, a collaboration with Louisiana
artist LeRoux. More than just an acclaimed bluesman,
he is an indefatigable conservation advocate, acting as
spokesman for the organization Voice of the Wetlands,
and starring in the iMax motion picture Hurricane on the
Bayou, a documentary of Hurricane Katrina’s effects and
a call to restore the wetlands.
$22/$32/$44 Box Seats $59
Dance Alert
Sponsored by: Kim and Derek Ogle
Sponsored by: “The Paddys”
BIG TOP IDOL
6th ANNUAL SINGING COMPETITION
Fri. AUG 14, 7:30PM
Join us for our sixth annual competition for local
singers and one of our favorite nights of the summer.
Auditions are held in the early summer where a core
group of finalists are chosen to work with vocal coaches
to be ready for the live competition at the Big Top.
Those 13 years of age and under will compete for the title of Jr. Idol while those 14 and up
compete to become the next Big Top Idol. Duos, trios and groups are welcome to audition
and compete as well. Audience members vote and help to pick the winners.
Fun for the whole family!
Tickets: $10 Box Seats $25
Sponsored by: Bremer Bank and Larry & Pat Gansluckner
Big Top Idol Auditions:
Mon. JUN 29, 4:00PM – 6:30PM CTA in Ashland, (210 5th Ave. East)
Tue. JUN 30, 4:00PM – 6:30PM Big Top Chautauqua, (Ski Hill Road, Bayfield)
VIC FERRARI’S
SYMPHONY ON THE ROCKS Sun. AUG 16, 7:30PM
Wisconsin’s own Vic Ferrari has been
wowing audiences since 1988. His
Symphony on the Rocks is a high-powered
rock show featuring the Vic Ferrari Band
backed by more than 20 instrumentalists
performing the biggest hits of classic rock
by all of your favorite groups: The Beach
Boys, Led Zepplin, Queen, Styx, The Beatles,
Foreigner, Journey and many more. This is no
ordinary symphony concert — people can’t
help getting on their feet — in other words it’s a whole lot of fun.
$26/$36/$46 Box Seats $61
Dance Alert
Sponsored by: Jim and Joy Perry
Dance Alert We never know when joyous dancing or standing may break out.
We try to make it fun for everyone. If you are not a dancer and don’t want to
be caught behind one, try choosing seats in the mid-center or back sections.
Tickets and Information: www.bigtop.org | 715-373-5552
17
2015 Season Schedule
THE BAREFOOT MOVEMENT
Opening set by: Tin Can Gin
Thu. AUG 20, 7:30PM
The Barefoot Movement, award winners
at the 2013 Telluride Bluegrass Festival and
the 2014 International Bluegrass Music
Awards, draws from styles of bluegrass,
folk, acoustic rock and Americana. With
original songs, impressive instrumentation, and interweaving harmonies, this
band converges old and new into a style
all its own: heartfelt, energetic, and down
home. Heralded by CMT Edge as “one of the most promising bands on the bluegrass
scene,” the music of the Nashville based group is as down to earth as their intention for
members of their audience: sit back, relax, take your shoes off, and stay a while.
$20/$26/$29 Box Seats $44 Kids Half Price
Sponsored by: Capital Brewery and Reed Realty
BELFAST TO BLUEGRASS
Sat. AUG 22, 7:30PM
From the team that brought us
“Shanties & Shipwrecks” comes a
musical adventure of jigs and ballads as
they travel to the Appalachian
Mountains by way of a quarter of a
million Scots Irish. Before the United
States were formed, the inhabitants
were absorbing, merging and transforming the ethnic sounds of its people.
Hear the changes in the traditional Celtic tunes as bluegrass and other genres
are being born into the world of our
American musical culture. Performed by
the BCO and featuring special guests Stevie Matier, Molly Stoddard, Harrison Olk, Tom
Draughon, Nori Perrine and Mary Lou Williams.
Adults $22/Ages 4-17 $11 Box Seats $37 Also plays 7/24 and 8/2
Sponsored by: Frenchie’s Auto Repair, Washburn
BIG TOP OPRY
Fri. AUG 21, 7:30PM
The Blue Canvas Orchestra re-creates the
music of The Opry’s legendary performers
such as Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, Marty
Robbins and The Carter Family. Debuting
in 2014, this show is a resounding hit.
Severin Behnen wrote the show and leads
the band. Corey Carlson, our own musical
chameleon, assisted Behnen in the creation of the show and is featured along
with guests Randy Sabien, Joe Savage,
Danielle Diamond and Emily Belanger in this nostalgic and entertaining romp through
the best Western songs from the heydays of The Grand Ole Opry.
Adults $22/Ages 4-17 $11 Box Seats $37
VINCE GILL
Sun. AUG 23, 7:30PM
Country singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist
Vince Gill has sold more than 26 million albums. He has
earned 18 CMA Awards, including Entertainer of the Year
in 1993 and 1994. Song of the Year four times – making him
the most-awarded artist in that category in CMA history.
Gill is a member of the Grand Ole Opry, and has received 20
Grammy Awards to date, the most of any male Country artist.
In August of 2007, the Country Music Association inducted Gill
as a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame.
$72/$89/$102 Box Seats $117
Sponsored by: Lawrence Hendrickson and Barbara Forster
Also plays 6/20 and 7/16
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[email protected] | 715-747-2415
2015 Season Schedule
BLUE CANVAS ORCHESTRA IN
CONCERT
Thu. AUG 27, 7:30PM
GREG BROWN
Sat. AUG 29, 7:30PM
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 rock-solid
legion of fans. Perhaps it is the familiar thunder in his
voice or the relatability of his poetically-wrought lyrics;
we always look forward to Greg Brown’s return to the
Big Top. Greg’s songs have been performed by many
popular artists including Joan Baez, Willie Nelson, Shawn
Colvin and Carlos Santana.
We’re cutting the band loose on some
of their favorite songs from the season
and from summers past. Musical
Director Ed Willett leads the famed
house band that has graced the Big
Top stage since its founding in 1986.
They are an eclectic blend of string
instruments, driving rhythm section,
and stunning voices that together rock
the tent with their unique fusion of bluegrass, folk and jazzy blues. Big screen visuals
accompany the songs creating a full sensory experience that is the signature of our
original, historical and environmental musicals.
Adults $22/Ages 3-17 $11 Box Seats $37 Also plays 6/18
$22/$30/$38 Box Seats $53
Sponsored by: Bayfield County Tourism
MICHAEL PERRY and RONNY COX
Fri. AUG 28, 7:30PM
We bring together music and humor in a special night
of grand entertainment. Michael Perry, a Wisconsin
native, is a New York Times bestselling author, humorist
and the host of Big Top’s Tent Show Radio. Tonight he’ll
present humorous monologues from his books and
humor albums. Ronny Cox is a superbly talented singer/
songwriter, musician and actor who has been active
in music and Hollywood for over 40 years including
appearances in Deliverance, Beverly Hills Cop, and Total
Recall. Ronny’s music is a woven tapestry of songs and
stories that tells something of “the human condition.”
Luckily for us his group of consummate musicians
includes long-time Big Top performer Bruce Bowers
on fiddle.
$20/$26/$29 Box Seats $44
Sponsored by: Wisconsin Public Radio
RIDING THE WIND
Fri. SEP 4, 7:00PM
Ride the winds of time and have
fun while you learn in this classic
illuminated musical history of Bayfield
and the island environs, with secrets
of Red Cliff and Old LaPointe. Original
music and song-stories tell the tales
while the big screen shines with
hundreds of then and now photos
featuring Lightkeepers, Ojibway life,
dreamers & schemers, town scenes,
voyaguers, sailing, fishing, the big flood and more. Created in 1985 by Warren Nelson
and Betty Ferris (Nelson Ferris Concert Company,) Riding the Wind was the first show
performed on the Big Top Stage and is still a season highlight.
Adults $22/Ages 4-17 $11 Box Seats $37 Also plays 7/19
Sponsored by: Terry Panian
Clothing, gear, and accessories for an active life.
SOLSTICEOUTDOORSTORE.COM
NEW LOCATIONS!
Solstice Outdoors
at Blue Wave on the Bay
Tickets and Information: www.bigtop.org | 715-373-5552
&
Solstice
400 W Main Street
19
2015 Season Schedule
PAULA POUNDSTONE
Sat. SEP 5, 7:00PM
Get ready for a night of laugh-out-loud,
good-time comedy by Emmy Award-winning
comedian Paula Poundstone. You’ll probably
remember her as the funny one on NPR’s
popular weekly news quiz show, “Wait Wait…
Don’t Tell Me” where her distinctive brand of wry,
intelligent and witty comedy is heard by
five million homes weekly across the country and
internationally. In 2013 Paula joined Whoopi
Goldberg, Joan Rivers and several other prominent
women in comedy in Showtime’s feature-length
documentary, Why We Laugh Too: Women
of Comedy. She has starred in comedy specials
for HBO and Bravo and is recognized as one of
Comedy Central’s 100 Greatest Stand-Ups Of All Time.
$25/$35/$47 Box Seats $62
Sponsored by: Pat & Judy Sebranek
and Ruth & Bruce Goetz
BRULÉ & AIRO
Sun. SEP 6, 7:00PM
Brule’ returns to the Big Top bringing their
blend of contemporary Native American
sounds in a powerful performance that
carries the same contagious excitement as
Trans Siberian Orchestra and Celtic Thunder,
but with the emotional impact of the
American Indian culture. Described as an
experience in sight, sound and soul, the show
features selected titles from their
discography of twelve CDs along with
Paul’s personal message of peace, hope and reconciliation between cultures. Each song is
accompanied by beautiful choreography and breathtaking Native American dancers wearing
traditional regalia. Brulé has sold over a million CDs worldwide and won multiple Native
American Music Awards.
$22/$36/$44 Box Seats $59 Kids Half Price
Sponsored by: Legendary Waters Resort & Casino
and Great Lakes Indian Fish & Wildlife Commission
BRULÉ w/ NATIVE EXPRESSIONS
DRUM & DANCE
Sun. SEP 6, 1:00PM
Join Paul LaRoche, the founder of the
award-winning Native American group
Brulé, and performers from Red Cliff’s
school of dance, Native Expressions
Drum & Dance, in an afternoon cultural
performance. LaRoche speaks of the
reconciliation between cultures as he
shares Brule’s unique brand of revved
up music and dance. Native Expressions
performs with a mission of positive self-esteem for all people and brings the message of
unity and the knowledge that we are all one tribe. Stick around after the performance to
try out a dance step or two, led by the dancers of Native Expressions.
FREE - No Tickets Required
Sponsored by: Essentia Health – Ashland Clinic, Apostle Islands Booksellers, Apostle Islands
Cruises, Ashland Daily Press, Bayview Motel, BMO Harris Bank, Bodin’s Inc, Chequamegon
Bay Area Community Fund, Chippewa Valley Bank, Ruth Goetz, Deb and Jeff Lewis, The
Inn on Madeline Island, Memorial Medical Center, New Moon Ski and Bike Shop, Norvado,
The Pinehurst Inn, Karen Traut, Von Holzen Chevrolet, Washburn IGA
20
LISTEN ONLINE
w w w.te nt s h ow
ra d i o . co m
LISTEN
ONLINE
2015 Season Schedule
Join us for a Blessing of the Water Gathering with Waubanewquay Day,
Larry Long & Special Guests with Jim Ramsdell’s Our Shared Planet exhibit
Thu. SEP 9 at 6:30PM | Free and open to the public
LARRY LONG presents
AMERICAN ROOTS REVUE
Thu. SEP 10, 7:00PM
Smithsonian Folkways recording
artist, activist, community-builder
and troubadour, Larry Long, brings his
popular American Roots Revue series
to the Big Top in a multi-cultural
celebration of the music of this country.
Joining Larry are Anishinabe and Oneida
hip hop artist, Tall Paul; the ‘Pavarotti’ of
gospel, Robert Robinson; women’s vocal
quartet, Joyful Noize and Midewiwin
Native Life Ways Singer & Keeper of the
Song, Waubanewquay Day. American
Roots Revue works from the core of
America’s richest musical traditions of
First Nation, gospel, blues, folk, rock,
R&B, spoken word & hip hop, presenting
“Songs of Water and of the Land, Songs
of Freedom, Struggle,
and Sovereignty.”
$20/$26/$29 Box Seats $44
Kids Half Price
Sponsored by:
The Big Top Board of Directors
RIDERS IN THE SKY
SALUTE TO ROY ROGERS
with THE QUEBE SISTERS
Fri. SEP 11, 7:00PM
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 and
living life “The Cowboy Way!” In
addition to being inducted into the
Grand Ole’ Opry, and many halls of
fame, they are also the winners of two
Grammys for music from Disney/Pixar’s Toy Story 2 and Monsters, Inc. The Quebe
Sisters are the newest darlings of Western music, performing a refreshing blend of
vintage country and Texas-style fiddling.
$28/$38/$44 Box Seats $59 Kids Half Price
CIRQUE ZUMA ZUMA
AFRICAN ACROBATS
Sat. SEP 12, 1:00PM
Cirque Zuma Zuma is unlike anything you’ve
ever seen before! This can’t-miss African-style
acrobatic performance is a high-energy dance
act: part Cirque du Soleil, part Harlem
Globetrotters. The show includes performances
of varied African cultures including South African
gumboot dancers, Zuma Zuma acrobats,
Tanzanian chair balancing, Gabonese tumblers
and much more!
FREE - No Tickets Required
Sponsored by: Essentia Health – Ashland Clinic,
Apostle Islands Booksellers, Apostle Islands
Cruises, Ashland Daily Press, Bayview Motel,
BMO Harris Bank, Bodin’s Inc, Chequamegon
Bay Area Community Fund, Chippewa Valley Bank, Ruth Goetz, Deb and Jeff Lewis, The Inn on
Madeline Island, Memorial Medical Center, New Moon Ski and Bike Shop, Norvado, The Pinehurst Inn, Karen Traut, Von Holzen Chevrolet, Washburn IGA
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Tickets and Information: www.bigtop.org | 715-373-5552
21
2015 Season Schedule
OLD LAST NIGHT
with MICHAEL PERRY, BCO
& THE QUEBE SISTERS
Sat. SEP 12, 7:00PM
Old Last Night is our traditional closing
night, where we celebrate with music
and laughter the end of another Big
Top season. Our beloved house band,
The Blue Canvas Orchestra opens the
night with rollicking renditions of some
of their favorite songs, illuminated by
the big screen images behind them.
Author, humorist, and host of Tent Show Radio, Michael Perry, delivers his hilarious,
winding tales of rural Wisconsin life. Also joining in the festivities are The Quebe Sisters
from Fort Worth, Texas. Touring in support of their latest album, Every Which-A-Way,
some of their performance highlights include appearances at the Grand Ole Opry, the
Kennedy Center, and the Smithsonian Folklife Festival. Laurie Otis and Molly Stoddard
make a guest appearance. $36/$28/$22 Box Seats $51
Sponsored by: Flamingos Up North: Wild Rice Restaurant, Maggie’s & The Egg Toss Café
CLOUD CULT
Opening set by:
Horseshoes & Hand Grenades
Fri. SEP 18, 7:00PM
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 feature two on-stage painters
who create artwork during the concert, as well as a full band complete with violin,
cello, trumpet, trombone and French horn. Stevens Point band Horseshoes & Hand
Grenades has a lively, celebratory sound strongly rooted in bluegrass, old-time and folk
music. This is our festival-style closing night of the season where all the seats are taken
out of the tent.
$28 Standing Room Only or Bring your own lawnchair
Sponsored by: Northland College and Northland College Student Association,
Kim & Derek Ogle and Ruth & Bruce Goetz
STAR
★ Gas
★ Groceries
★ Liquor
STAR NORTH
Cornucopia ★ Laundromat
NORTH
Highway C in Cornucopia, WI
Like us on Facebook!
22
BIG TAP CHAUTAuQUAFEST at Mt. ASHWABAY
Hosted by Big Top Chautauqua and the
Ashwabay Outdoor Educational Foundation,
Big TAP features brews under the big tent,
local cuisine on the “Fatty 5K” trek, a commemorative tasting glass, live music, wagon
rides, hammerschalagan and more.
Spend an autumn afternoon enjoying unlimited samples of local, regional, and craft brews
from more than 30 breweries, wineries and distilleries beneath the Big Top tent. The stage
will be featuring live music from Crescent Moon and Hoff Stevens. Take a break for the
“Fatty 5K” gourmet tasting adventure featuring area restaurants, producers, and caterers.
Participants can hike or take a leisurely wagon ride, winding up and around Nordic and
alpine ski trails, before crossing the ridge of Mt. Ashwabay. The vista offers outstanding
views of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands, with the Big Top tent in the foreground.
This wildly popular event is a benefit for Big Top Chautauqua and the Ashwabay Outdoor
Educational Foundation. No reservations needed for this route.
Bayfield Shuttle to Big TAP ChautauquaFest
Free, round-trip shuttle service from Bayfield to the tent. No reservations needed.
Drop Off & Pickup Points
Dalrymple Campground 11:50
Seagull Bay Motel 12:05
Ferry Line Lot 11:55
Apostle Island Campground12:08
Greunke’s 11:58
Woodside Cottages 12:10
Old Rittenhouse Inn 12:00
Port Superior Marina 12:15
Ashland & Washburn Shuttle to Big TAP ChautauquaFest
This is a RESERVED SEATING ONLY service. Reservations are on a first come, first served
basis. Call 715-373-5552 to make reservations.
Drop Off & Pickup Points
AmericInn Waterpark Conference Center 11:30 Quality Inn, Ashland 11:45
Krehrer Park 11:30
Washburn Thompson
Best Western Hotel Chequamgon 11:30
West End Campground 12:00
Civic Center 11:30
Big Top Chautauqua Washburn
Ashland Senior Center 11:30
Office 12:00
Deepwater Grille / South Shore Brewery 11:45 Washburn Memorial
Ashland Super 8 11:45
Campground 12:00
ADVERTISE YOUR
BUSINESS!
Call Big Top about space for 2016
715-373-0788
A NEW
PROFESSIONAL
THEATER
COMPANY
IN THE BAYFIELD,
WISCONSIN AREA
FEATURING PROFESSIONAL ACTORS FROM MINNEAPOLIS
RED
HERRING
JUNE 26 –
JULY 12
JULY 22 –
AUGUST 9
O R DER T I CK ET S O NL I NE AT
O R CA L L
AUGUST 19 –
SEPTEMBER 6
SEPTEMBER 19 –
OCTOBER 4
SIDEKICKTHEATRE.COM
(715 ) 373-1194
STAGENORTH
WASHBURN, WI 54891
P ER F O R M A NCES AT
123 W. OMAHA ST.
•
on the shore of Lake Superior in Bayfield County
We hope you’ll make us a part of your summer in northern Wisconsin
Tickets and Information: www.bigtop.org | 715-373-5552
23
Ticket Information
Tickets may be purchased online at www.bigtop.org or
by phone, 715-373-5552. Online ticket sales close at 3:30PM on
the day of the performance. Tickets may be purchased day of
show at the tent beginning at 5:30PM for 7:30PM shows,
5:00PM for 7:00PM shows.
• No refunds or exchanges for any shows.
• Accessible seating and on-site transportation available,
please specify when ordering tickets.
FREE SHUTTLE SERVICE
The shuttles operate for most shows from Jun. 13 thru Sep. 18
and BigTAP ChautauquaFest on Sep. 19.
No shuttle Jun. 23 (Pie & Politics)
Call for information 715-373-5552.
Essentia Health Free Family Series – New This Year!
Bayfield – Free, round trip shuttle service courtesy of Seagull Bay
Motel in Bayfield. No reservations needed for this route.
All-In Gate PricinG — New This Year!
Dalrymple Campground 11:55
Ferry Line Lot 12:00
Greunke’s 12:05
Old Rittenhouse Inn 12:07
Box OfficeS & Gift Shop
Bad River, Ashland, and Washburn – Free, round trip shuttle service
made possible by the Chequamegon Bay Area Community Fund, an
affiliate of the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation with
support from the Bad River Lodge & Casino. Reservation only with
limited pick-up and drop off locations, call 715-373-5552
Tickets at the gate (with tax and canvas fees) will be
rounded up to the nearest dollar to expedite sales.
Thanks for your cooperation!
Main Box Office / Gift Shop
101 West Bayfield Street, Washburn, WI 54891
Summer Season Hours: Mon.–Sat. 9AM–5PM;
Sun. Show Days 10AM-5PM
Off-Season Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9AM-5PM
Bayfield Box Office
Rittenhouse Ave. & First Street in Greunke’s parking lot.
Summer Season Hours: Show days 12:30PM–4:30PM
The Tent
32525 Ski Hill Rd., Mt. Ashwabay, Bayfield, 54814
Summer Season Hours: Show days starting at
5:30PM for 7:30PM shows / 5:00PM for 7:00PM shows.
Seating Options
Reserved Seating in the padded church pews, vintage
theatre seats, and bleachers
Box Seating available in rear of tent with cocktail
service (A-Price +$15)
Reserved Lawn Seating opens up when tent is filled.
Great viewing – Rain or Shine!
General Admission Lawn bring your own lawn chair or blanket.
Allows no access inside the tent. Rain or Shine!
• Notes about lawn seating: At least one side of the tent walls
will remain raised for lawn viewing. However on a rare night
of especially bad weather, all walls may need to be closed.
• Show can be viewed via A/V in T-Bar.
No refunds will be given.
Food & Beverage at the Tent
The Ashwabay Grill serves up a variety of entrees,
snacks, and desserts, and the T-Bar offers beer, wine,
and mixed drinks. Catering options available for groups
at www.mtashwabay.org/grill, 100% of the proceeds
benefit the Ashwabay Outdoor Educational Foundation.
Carry-ins and Tailgating Strictly Prohibited.
Plan Your Trip
Ashland Area Chamber
Bayfield Area Chamber & Visitor Bureau
Bayfield County Tourism
Cable Area Chamber
Duluth Area Chamber
Hayward Area Chamber
Iron River Area Chamber
Madeline Island Chamber
Phillips Chamber of Commerce Washburn Chamber
24
800 - 284 - 9484
800 - 447 - 4094
800 - 472 - 6338
800 - 533 - 7454
218 - 722 - 5501
715 - 634 - 8662
715 - 372 - 8558
888 - 475 - 3386
888 - 408 - 4800
800 - 253 - 4495
Seagull Bay Motel 12:10
Apostle Island Campground 12:20
Woodside Cottages 12:25
Port Superior Marina 12:30
Bayfield Shuttle
Free, round-trip shuttle service from Bayfield to the
tent courtesy of the Seagull Bay Motel in Bayfield.
No reservations needed for this route.
Drop Off & Pickup Points
Dalrymple Campground 6:20 / 5:50*
Ferry Line Lot 6:25 / 5:55*
Greunke’s 6:30 / 6:00*
Old Rittenhouse Inn 6:32 / 6:02*
Seagull Bay Motel 6:35 / 6:05*
Apostle Island Campground 6:38 / 6:08*
Woodside Cottages 6:40 / 6:10*
Port Superior Marina 6:45 / 6:15*
Legendary Waters Resort & Casino Shuttle
Legendary Waters provides free, round-trip
shuttle service for registered guests.
Call 715-779-3712 to make reservations.
Ashland & Washburn Shuttle
This is a RESERVED SEATING ONLY service. Reservations are
on a first come, first served basis. Reservations must be made by
4pm day of show. We cannot guarantee transport for
unreserved riders. Call 715-373-5552 to make reservations.
Drop Off & Pickup Points
AmericInn Waterpark
Conference Center 5:45 / 5:15*
Krehrer Park 5:45 / 5:15*
Best Western
Hotel Chequamgon 5:45 / 5:15*
Civic Center 5:45 / 5:15*
Ashland Senior Center 5:45 / 5:15*
Deepwater Grille /
South Shore Brewery 6:00 / 5:30*
Ashland Super 8 6:00 / 5:30*
Quality Inn, Ashland 6:00 / 5:30*
Washburn Thompson
West End Campground 6:15 / 5:45*
Big Top Chautauqua Washburn
Office 6:15 / 5:45*
Washburn Memorial
Campground 6:15 / 5:45*
Pick-up times are approximate – returns begin after the show
*September shows start 30 minutes earlier
This reservation-only shuttle service is made possible by
the businesses serving as pick-up locations and by the
City of Ashland, the City of Washburn, and the
Ashland Chamber of Commerce. Special thanks to Bay Area
Rural Transport for vehicle support. We encourage you to
patronize all of our generous sponsors.
Madeline Island Ferry
The Madeline Island Ferry Line offers late boats and
the Bayfield Shuttle picks up and returns riders to the
landing. No reservations needed for the shuttle, pick up
at 6:25PM for 7:30 shows / 5:55PM for 7:00PM shows.
Visit www.madferry.com or call 715-747-2051 for Ferry Schedule.
Local Flavor!
WE OFFER:
Daily Deli Specials
Salad Bar • Salads
Sandwiches • Chips • Snacks
Beer • Soda
Juice • Coffee • Tea
OpEn 7 Days a WEEk!
LOcaL • ORganic • natuRaL
DELi • gROcERiEs
700 Main Street West • Ashland, WI
(715) 682-8251
chequamegonfoodcoop.com
Tickets and Information: www.bigtop.org | 715-373-5552
25
TENT SHOW RADIO
Tent Show Radio is a weekly one-hour music series
showcasing live performances on stage at Lake Superior
Big Top Chautauqua. Hosted by farmer, humorist, New
York Times best-selling author and volunteer firefighter,
Michael Perry, the show features renowned regional
and national performers with regular contributions by
Big Top’s Blue Canvas Orchestra. Listen every week on
Wisconsin Public Radio and listener-supported radio
stations accross the country and online. To find out
when and where to listen, to stream live, or listen to
archived performances, visit www.tentshowradio.com.
Salute to our Tent Show Radio Sponsors:
ADVERTISEMENTS
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2nd Street Bistro
Andy’s IGA Grocery
Antique Garden Inn
Apostle Island Cruises
Ashland Baking Company
Ashland Chamber
Ashland Super 8 Motel
Bad River Lodge & Casino
Bayfield Camber
Bayfield County
Bayfield County Eco. Developement Corp.
Blue Wave on the Bay
Chequamegon Food Co-op
Coco Bakery & Café
Eckels Pottery and Fine Craft Gallery
Ethel’s at 250
Forts Folle Avoine Historical Park
Goldies Women’s Fine Apparel
Good Thyme Restaurant
Good Time Banjos
Greunke’s First Street Inn & Fine Food
Haukaas Law Office, S.C.
Hausers Superior View Farm
Howl Clothing & Adventure
Karlyn’s Gallery
Kelly & Crew
Keeper of the Light
Lake Superior Stone Jewelry
Langford Pharmacy
Legendary Waters Resort & Casino
Madeline Island Chamber
Madeline Island Museum
Madeline Island School of the Arts
Maggie’s Restaurant
Manitou Sailing Charters
McGrath House
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Memorial Medical Center
Minnesota Public Radio
Morty’s Pub
North Coast Coffee
Omer Nelson Electric
Oulu Glass Gallery / Studio
Patsy’s Bar & Grill
Portside Bar-Restaurant
Rittenhouse Inn
Seagull Bay Motel
Second Wind Country Inn
Sidekick Theatre
Silent Sports Magazine
Siskiwit Bay Lodge B&B
Sixth Street Market
Solstice Outdoors
Star North of Cornucopia
Stones Throw
Superior Rentals
Superior Sauna & Steam
Superior Vista Bike Tours
The Bayfield Inn
The Delta Diner
The Egg Toss Café
The Fat Radish
The Snug
Travel Wisconsin
Washburn IGA
Washburn Winter Storage
Wild Rice Restaurant
Windfield Inn
Wisconsin Public Radio
Tickets and Information: www.bigtop.org | 715-373-5552
27
PAGE TITLE
PO Box 455, 101 W. Bayfield St.
Washburn, WI 54891
104.7
WASHBURN
89.9
BRULE
Dance Alert We never know when joyous dancing or standing may break out. We try to make it fun for everyone.
If you are not a dancer and don’t want to be caught behind one, try choosing seats in the mid-center or back sections.
Information. Inspiration.
wpr.org