Eden (Mumba) moved from Zambia to Canada to escape her complicated family, but stayed in their business of mining — albeit in a junior position without upward mobility. When her father (Kapembwa Wanjelani) has a heart attack, it brings his three children back. Eden returns home and her Canadian and Zambian lives collide, laying bare all the family secrets.
Mumba’s incisive writing challenges Canadian audiences to consider the stories we tell ourselves about Africa, as well as the ones we tell ourselves about our benevolence and multiculturalism. The dialogue is compelling with natural and humorous dialogue, but it left me with questions about some of the siblings’ (Eric Miracle as Musolo, and Makambe K. Simamba as Lombe) relationships, and their mother’s (Warona Setshhwaelo) motivations and stoicism.
The fantastic cast brought life and depth to each character and the powerful writing covered some of the weaknesses in the story, but also exposed them. Were those elements not so impressive, I might not have been as invested and curious to notice any moments where the story lacked.
Even with those unanswered questions, Copperbelt was a refreshing production, unafraid to point out and critique unethical and exploitative practices via one dysfunctional family.
This article appeared in the 2026 Apr/May issue.