The Big Comfy Couch

The Big Comfy Couch was a well-loved children's program that initially aired from 1992 to 2006. Produced by Cheryl Wagner, this innovative show presented a world of fun and learning through the metaphor of a big comfy couch sitting in the middle of a whimsical clown universe called 'Clowntown'. Geared towards pre-school aged children, this television series was developed and aired by PBS, a reputable network known for its educational and informative content. The show was later aired in reruns until 2013, continuing to entertain and educate a new generation of young viewers.

Two primary characters carried the show, each bringing their distinctive charm: Loonette the Clown, and her best friend, Molly, a large rag doll. Canadian actress Alyson Court graced the screen as Loonette for most of the series runs, while Bob Stutt brilliantly voiced Molly, creating a memorable duo that resonated with early childhood viewers. Taborah Johnson provided the character Granny Garbanzo's voice, adding an extra layer of whimsical dialogue and humour to the show.

The Big Comfy Couch revolved around Loonette and Molly's daily adventures on their oversized couch, creating a sincere and direct connection between the show and its young audience. Through these characters, the program incorporated lessons regarding problem-solving and values such as friendship, honesty, and cooperation.

Every episode also featured a dollhouse, another universe within the universe of their fluffy couch, where Loonett’s doll Molly lived, and their life was played out. This miniature realm often mirrored the main theme of the story, connecting the narratives in the dollhouse to the larger issues Loonette dealt with on the 'Big Comfy Couch.'

Unlike conventional shows, The Big Comfy Couch was not a cartoon but an amalgamation of live-action elements, puppets, and green screen animation to form comprehensive visual storytelling. It used unique props and costumes, which were often oversized, to emphasize the clown world. The creative setting contributed to the show's charm, and it often felt like stepping into a child’s imaginative world, where everything is larger and more colorful.

The presentation of the clowns was unique. Instead of the traditional circus-like portrayal, it showed sympathetic and relatable clowns, incorporating humor and wisdom without scaring the little viewers. Besides Loonnette and Molly, other clowns frequented the show, like Major Bedhead, a clown courier often playing the comedic relief, Granny Garbanzo, a grandmotherly figure, and Snicklefritz, Granny’s cat.

Every episode began with a 'Clock Rug Stretch,' a healthy and fun routine where Loonette performed comical and exaggerated stretching exercises on a large floor clock. This segment was not just a random act of clown comedy; it subtly taught young watchers the concept and significance of time.

A fundamental feature of the show was Dust Bunnies, tiny creatures that live under the couch and usually are seen by the audiences, not by Loonette and Molly. This not only added a fun layer to the show but also acted as an innovative way to teach cleanliness and household responsibility to children.

The Big Comfy Couch wasn’t just about teaching morals or academic lessons; it was about teaching the fun in living, the joy in doing everyday things. Be it cleaning, which was presented in entertaining ‘Ten-Second Tidy’ at the end of an episode, or just contemplating – it was everyday living with fun.

In a nutshell, The Big Comfy Couch was known for its intelligent content, incorporating comedy, creativity, and meaningful life lessons. Its unique storytelling, compelling characters, and imaginative setup made it a treasured gem in children's television. After more than two decades, it remains a remarkable series that has significantly influenced the landscape of children's programming.