Raising Awareness for Marginalized Transnational Migrants on the Taiwanese Stage: Narrative Strategies and Representation in The Qibla and Homecoming

Abstract: In 2017, drama activities and theatrical performances in Taiwan increasingly explored the culture and migration stories of migrant workers and marriage immigrants. Notably, The Qibla and Homecoming , both centered on foreign domestic caregivers, sparked public discussions and drew significant attention. Despite winning the coveted Taiwan Literature Golden Award in Drama in 2015, as a production, The Qibla faced mostly negative reviews, whereas Homecoming was widely acclaimed, especially for its innovative blend of puppetry and live action, earning it a nomination for the prestigious Taishin Arts Award for Performance. These contrasting receptions highlight the challenges of advocating for underrepresented groups and portraying them effectively on stage. This paper examines the narrative strategies used in both plays to foster empathy for marginalized transnational migrants and raise awareness of their experiences. It also analyzes how the staging choices and the portrayal of migrant workers shape audience reception and interpretation.