Still Standing

Still Standing is a Canadian television comedy series that debuted in 2015, operating under the silent backdrop of the country's hidden stories, bringing laughter and a new perspective to its often overlooked small towns.

The series boldly, albeit affectionately, takes viewers off the beaten path, visiting small Canadian towns on the verge of losing their footing, yet, somehow continuing to stand stubbornly in the face of ongoing change or adversity. The name 'Still Standing' echoes the resilience, tenacity, and incredible spirit of these small communities, as well as the humor found in their struggles and triumphs.

Tying the comedy and storytelling together is Jonny Harris, the show's beloved host. Known for his role on the popular Canadian drama "Murdoch Mysteries," Harris is a natural fit for Still Standing's unique blend of heartwarming tales and stand-up comedy. Harris, a Newfoundland native and himself a proud byproduct of rural Canada, travels across the country, discovering diverse and colourful small communities and the characters who inhabit them.

The essence of the show is not merely restricted to community exploration or traditional sightseeing. Over the course of one week, Harris becomes immersed in the local events, meeting store owners, historians, and community members, learning about the town's distinct history, characteristics, and challenges. The local characters who pop in and out of focus⁠—each with tall tales and warmer hearts⁠—are the real stars of the episodes, embodying the spirit and soul of their community's unique tapestry.

Following his immersion into the local life, Harris, as a fitting climax to each episode, performs a stand-up comedy routine for the town's local residents. With a humor palette that intends to entertain rather than deride, these comedy performances cleverly and lovingly thread together what Harris has learned about the community.

They showcase his evident fondness for his Canadian roots and just how committed he is to honouring local resilience and humour, typically using the community's struggles, quirks, cultural idiosyncrasies, and stories as his inspiration. The array of reactions from the town folk, ranging from surprise to hearty amusement, forms the golden thread that stitches each episode together.

Still Standing is also visually delightful, beautifully capturing the scenic charm of the rural landscapes and picturesque small towns. It paints a complete picture of the diversity of the Canadian rural experience, from the vibrant colours of autumn in the East to the snow-capped mountain ranges in the West, and the open spaces in between.

However, what makes Still Standing truly stand apart from its comedy kinfolk is the substantial weight it places on community bonds, resilience, and hope. Even when speaking about the decline of industries, population flux or local mishaps, the show skillfully maintains a nod to positivity.

Thus, more than a comedy series, Still Standing offers an insightful yet laughter-filled journey into the heart of small-town Canada. The stories it unfolds simultaneously focus on the hardships and joy, offering a compelling and realistic view of life in these humble but resilient communities.

The show enables viewers who may know little about these towns to develop empathy and understanding for such communities—facilitating a connection that surpasses mere passive viewing. Equally, it stands as a testament to the will of every community that refuses to buckle under the weight of hardship and evolving economies.

In conclusion, Still Standing is a journey of discovery, an exploration of human stories wrapped in humour, a tribute to the resilience of communities, and a homage to small-town life, all in the guise of a comedy show. It highlights the essence of being Canadian⁠—offering both heart and humour in spades. It embodies a spirit of adventure that is daringly authentic, often unpolished, and unapologetically Canadian, uniting the country's vast and varied communities in laughter and shared experiences. The show is a celebration of survival, resilience, and the human spirit.

Still Standing is, above all else, a comedic tribute to the spirit of Canadians; it serves as a warm, comforting reminder that in these small corners of the world, no matter the challenges, communities continue to stand strong, significant, and, indeed, still standing.