In a striking solo performance that won PECDA's 2018 edition, Aseng Borang unpacks the everyday prejudice faced by people from Northeast India in so-called "mainland" spaces. Through movement, storytelling, and sharp humour, The Chinky Express Comes to Town challenges the expectations placed on marginalised identities - asking why anyone should have to "normalise" their existence just to belong.

What happens when someone refuses to shrink themselves to fit? When they take back control of their own body, their own story? Aseng reclaims the slurs and stereotypes imposed on her, turning them into a powerful act of defiance - on her own terms.

Prakriti Excellence in Contemporary Dance Awards (PECDA), is a biennial pan-Indian open-entry competition of works in progress for contemporary choreographers and dancers. It was founded with a vision to nurture a community of contemporary dancers and recognize excellence in the field.

This evening of contemporary dance at Oddbird Theatre…