The National Arts Centre unveils Copperbelt, a powerful world-premiere drama that bridges continents and generations, running January 13-24, 2026—an unmissable opportunity to witness original Canadian theatre exploring identity, family, and the mining industry through stories connecting Toronto and Zambia’s legendary Copperbelt region.
Ottawa theatre lovers have a rare opportunity this January. World premieres represent the birth of new theatrical works, and Copperbelt promises to deliver a thought-provoking exploration of themes that resonate across cultures and borders. This is Canadian theatre at its most ambitious, tackling global stories with local heart.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Copperbelt is a world-premiere drama at NAC from January 13-24, 2026. The play explores family dynamics, mining industry impact, and identity across Toronto and Zambia. Don’t miss this chance to see original Canadian theatre before anyone else.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Dates | January 13-24, 2026 |
| 📍 Venue | National Arts Centre, Ottawa |
| 🎭 Type | World Premiere Drama |
| 🌍 Themes | Family, Mining, Identity |
About the Play
A World Premiere Experience
Witnessing a world premiere is unlike any other theatrical experience:
- First audience ever – You see the story before anyone else in the world
- Original Canadian work – Supporting homegrown theatrical talent
- NAC production quality – Canada’s premier performing arts venue
- Cultural significance – Stories that matter, told with power
- Theatrical history – Be part of the play’s origin story
Why World Premieres Matter
Theatre lives through new works. Every classic was once a premiere:
- Fresh storytelling – Narratives untouched by previous interpretations
- Artist collaboration – Writers, directors, and actors shaping together
- Audience impact – Your reactions help shape the work’s future
- Canadian culture – Building our national theatrical identity
- Ottawa’s role – The capital as a launchpad for important stories
The National Arts Centre: Home to Canadian theatrical premieres.
The Story of Copperbelt
Bridging Two Worlds
Copperbelt weaves a narrative between two distinct locations:
Toronto, Canada:
- The Canadian immigrant experience
- Urban family dynamics
- Identity in a new homeland
- Generational perspectives
Zambia’s Copperbelt Region:
- One of Africa’s major mining areas
- Rich cultural heritage
- Economic transformation
- Historical significance
Themes Explored
The play delves into universal human experiences:
Family:
- Parent-child relationships across distances
- Generational expectations and tensions
- Love expressed through sacrifice
- Reconciliation and understanding
Identity:
- Who we are versus where we come from
- Navigating between cultures
- Finding belonging in new places
- Honouring roots while growing branches
Mining Industry:
- Economic realities shaping communities
- Worker experiences and sacrifices
- Environmental and social impact
- Global connections through resources
What Makes This Story Unique
Copperbelt offers perspectives rarely seen on Canadian stages:
- African-Canadian narratives – Expanding whose stories get told
- Global-local connections – How faraway events touch Canadian lives
- Mining industry lens – An often-overlooked world of workers
- Immigrant experience depth – Beyond surface-level representation
The National Arts Centre
Canada’s Performing Arts Home
The NAC stands as Canada’s premier performing arts venue:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa |
| Opened | 1969 |
| Status | National institution |
| Mandate | Showcase Canadian artists |
Theatre Excellence
The NAC’s theatre programming delivers:
- World-class productions – Professional quality throughout
- Canadian focus – Prioritizing homegrown stories
- Diverse voices – Expanding who tells stories
- Technical excellence – State-of-the-art facilities
- Audience development – Building theatre appreciation
Getting to the NAC
By Transit:
- O-Train Line 1 to Rideau Station
- Multiple bus routes to Elgin Street
- Easy connections from across the city
By Car:
- Underground parking available
- Nearby public parking lots
- Central downtown location
By Foot:
- Walking distance from Parliament Hill
- Near ByWard Market area
- Accessible from major hotels
Why See This Production
For Theatre Enthusiasts
If you love theatre, Copperbelt offers:
- New work excitement – Discover before the reviews tell you
- Canadian talent – Support our theatrical community
- Conversation starter – Discuss themes afterward
- Cultural importance – Witness theatrical history
For Those New to Theatre
First-time theatregoers will appreciate:
- Accessible storytelling – Universal themes everyone connects with
- Professional quality – NAC ensures excellence
- Welcoming environment – Theatre for everyone
- Reasonable runtime – Engaging without exhausting
For the Curious
Perhaps you’re drawn by:
- Mining industry stories – Rarely explored in drama
- African-Canadian perspectives – Important voices amplified
- Toronto-Zambia connection – Unexpected cultural bridges
- January entertainment – Beat the winter blues with powerful theatre
Planning Your Visit
Before the Show
Preparation:
- Book tickets early for best seat selection
- Arrive 30 minutes before curtain
- Check NAC website for exact showtimes
- Review parking or transit options
Dining Nearby:
- NAC has on-site dining options
- Elgin Street restaurants within walking distance
- ByWard Market offers diverse choices
During the Performance
What to Expect:
- Approximately 2-hour runtime (verify with NAC)
- Intermission typically included
- Phones silenced throughout
- Engage with the story fully
After the Show
Continue the Evening:
- Discuss the play at nearby cafes
- Explore Ottawa’s winter events
- Visit museums with free admission hours
- Walk the illuminated downtown streets
Performance Schedule
| Week | Dates | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | January 13-18, 2026 | Opening week performances |
| Week 2 | January 19-24, 2026 | Closing week performances |
Verify specific showtimes and days on the NAC website when booking.
Ticket Information
How to Purchase
- NAC Website: nac-cna.ca
- Box Office: 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa
- Phone: 1-888-991-2787
Booking Recommendations
- Book early – World premieres attract strong interest
- Opening night – Experience the energy of a first performance
- Weeknight options – Often less crowded than weekends
- Accessibility – Contact NAC for specific accommodation needs
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a world premiere, and why is it special?
A world premiere means this is the first time the play has ever been performed for an audience anywhere. You experience the story before critics review it, before word spreads, before interpretations form. It’s theatre in its most raw and exciting form.
Q: Do I need to know about Zambia or mining to enjoy the play?
Not at all. The play uses these settings to explore universal themes of family and identity that everyone can relate to. The storytelling will provide all the context needed. Come with open minds and hearts.
Q: How long is the performance?
Runtime details will be confirmed closer to opening. Expect approximately two hours with an intermission. Check the NAC website for final timing when booking your tickets.
Q: Is this appropriate for teenagers?
Drama productions at NAC are generally suitable for mature teenagers. The themes of family, identity, and work are accessible. Contact NAC directly for specific content guidance if needed.
Q: Will there be talk-backs or special events during the run?
Many world premieres include post-show discussions, meet-the-artist events, or educational programming. Check the NAC website for any scheduled special events during the January 13-24 run.
Final Thoughts
Copperbelt represents everything that makes Canadian theatre vital: new voices, untold stories, and the courage to explore connections that span continents. This world premiere at the National Arts Centre offers Ottawa audiences a rare privilege—witnessing the birth of a theatrical work that addresses family, identity, and the often-invisible world of mining communities.
January in Ottawa can feel long and cold, but the theatre provides warmth of a different kind. Stories that challenge us, move us, and connect us to experiences beyond our own offer respite from winter’s grip and food for thought that lasts well beyond curtain call.
The NAC’s commitment to premiering new Canadian work ensures our national stories continue to evolve and expand. By attending Copperbelt, you participate in that cultural mission, supporting artists who dare to tell stories that matter.
From January 13-24, 2026, the stage at the National Arts Centre becomes a bridge between Toronto and Zambia, between generations and expectations, between who we are and where we come from. Cross that bridge. Experience Copperbelt.
Source: National Arts Centre programming information – Compiled for Via Ottawa readers.
Explore more Ottawa events throughout the winter season. Looking for indoor activities? Discover free museum admission days or learn about Parliament Hill’s fascinating history.
