Saskatoon's Beloved Children's Entertainer Helen Lumby Embraced the Spotlight in 1985
On this day in 1985, Saskatchewan's cherished children's entertainer Helen Lumby, the creative force behind the beloved Size Small television series, granted an interview that offered a fascinating glimpse into her remarkable career. The Saskatoon-based artist opened up about her creative process, career milestones, and the joy she found in connecting with young audiences through music, television, and live performances.
The Creative Process Behind Size Small
Helen Lumby described her multifaceted role as encompassing writing lyrics, composing music, creating poems, stories, and games for children across various media formats. Her work included not only the original Size Small Series but also the Size Small Country Series, along with numerous television appearances and stage shows that brought her creations to life.
"What I enjoy most about my work is writing and producing original material, particularly songs," Lumby revealed. "There's a wonderful satisfaction in developing something you're truly pleased with after extensive writing and rewriting until it feels just right. Then, witnessing the results through children's reactions makes it all worthwhile."
She candidly discussed the unpredictable nature of creativity, noting that some projects required extensive development time while others came together remarkably quickly. "One of my personal favorites, 'Three Lady Alligators,' took an entire year to perfect," Lumby explained. "In contrast, 'Tap-a Ma Toes' was completed in just four hours. The creative process can be maddening at times when ideas take forever to coalesce."
The Thrill of Live Performances
A particularly exciting development in Lumby's career during 1985 was her venture into live stage shows, which represented a new direction for the Size Small brand. "The live performances have become a wonderful and fun adventure for us," she enthused. "We had never done them before this year, and the response has been absolutely terrific. There's something magical about seeing two thousand children and parents singing, dancing, and clapping along with us during our shows."
This direct connection with audiences provided a new dimension to her work, allowing her to witness firsthand the impact of her creative efforts on families across Saskatchewan and beyond.
Career Beginnings and Influences
Lumby traced her professional journey back to her first job at The Bay, where she initially worked in sportswear while hoping for an opportunity in the record department. "Radio and television opportunities came soon after," she recalled. "My time at CFQC radio station included some of the happiest periods of my life, setting the stage for my future in children's entertainment."
When asked about the biggest influences on her life and career, Lumby emphasized the central role of family. "My family has been my greatest influence and joy," she stated. "My husband John and our children Jeff, John Jr., and Lisa have all played significant roles in our business operations, contributing ideas and talent to television programs, recordings, and stage shows."
She also acknowledged key professional collaborators who helped advance her career, including Stan Thomas and Don Brinton of CKND Winnipeg, who provided valuable platforms for her work. Additionally, she credited the Saskatchewan Educational Media Services in Regina for their production facilities and expertise, along with parents, educators, and supportive friends who made her creative endeavors possible.
A Personal Sanctuary in Northern Saskatchewan
Beyond her professional life, Lumby shared her affection for a special retreat that provided balance and inspiration. "My favorite vacation spot is an island on Nemieben Lake in northern Saskatchewan," she described. "My husband discovered this special six-acre island about fifteen years ago, complete with sandy beaches, tall pines, clear fresh water, and peaceful solitude. He and friends built a cabin there, and we love spending summer time there with family and friends."
This personal sanctuary offered a contrast to her busy creative life and provided the tranquility necessary for artistic rejuvenation.
The 1985 interview with Helen Lumby captures a pivotal moment in the career of a Saskatchewan cultural icon whose Size Small series would continue to delight children for years to come. Her reflections on creativity, family collaboration, and audience connection reveal the dedication and passion that fueled her successful career in children's entertainment.
