Long-time children’s entertainer and Richmond resident Charlotte Diamond always sparkles on stage.
And during Friday’s Canada Day celebrations at the Steveston Salmon Festival, she had one more reason to shine as she proudly wore her brand new pin granted to those who earn the Order of Canada.
“I was shocked. I never thought in my life I’d ever get this,” said Diamond, who has been performing for the past three decades with her trademark, catchy tunes about life, love and family.
“I was so pleased, honoured and proud, all at the same time.”
Diamond received a phone call out of the blue in early June, notifying her of the award. She doesn’t know who nominated her, but feels her work in the community, and with various organizations promoting wellness and family, earned her the nod.
“Because I write for organizations like UNICEF and the Red Cross, and the work I did for BC Children’s Hospital — I wrote them a theme tune — it made me feel that, gosh, somebody was listening,” she said.
Diamond, 70, added it was also a special moment to be able to share news of her award with a large crowd of people at the Salmon Festival’s children’s stage, where she was performing for the first time, despite having lived in Richmond since the 1970s.
“I felt like I was surrounded by so many people who had, over the years, supported my music and were now introducing it to their children and grandchildren,” she said.
“It was wonderful for me to look out and see grandparents, parents and young kids. There were three generations right there in front of me, all singing together.
“I thought to myself, ‘how often does that happen in life?’ It was lovely. It was a gift that I was so glad to experience and share.”
When she was introduced to the stage, news of Diamond’s award was announced.
“They cheered and clapped. It was a special moment,” she said.
That rousing welcome inspired Diamond to introduce, in depth, to the crowd a couple of her songs that speak of Canadian values. One was Leave the World a Little Bit Better. The other was May There Always Be Sunshine.
“Those songs are so simple, but perfect for such an event,” Diamond said. “They talk about taking care of the things we have, starting with our families, then reaching out to our communities, our country and then the rest of the world.
“And to see the audience do all of the songs’ actions with me, and smile with each other, it made me realize that something very special happens when you put families together. It sent shivers up my back. There were times when I just backed off and let them sing.”
Sometime in the coming months Diamond will be invited to attend an induction ceremony at the Gov. General’s residence at Rideau Hall in Ottawa.
Diamond said she’s looking forward to the event, as well as making more music for fans, young and old, to enjoy.
“I think there’s much more to come,” she said.
