COLD TOFU was founded in 1981 by Marilyn Tokuda and Denice Kumagai who joined forces with Judy Momii and Irma Escamilla to start the nation's first and longest running Asian American improv and comedy troupe.  During a time when comedy was not a viable path for Asian American performers, these four founding members wanted to provide opportunities for Asian American actors to perform and explore comedy.  Stocked with six-packs and chips, the core group met regularly at each other’s homes exploring new territory – Asian American comedy. Though touted as being the first Asian American improv group, COLD TOFU's roots are multicultural. Early members include Amy Hill, Joey Miyashima, Phil LaMarr, Jerry Tondo, Scott Nagatani, Jim MacNerland, Geoff Rivas, and Robert Covarrubias.

 

The group built its foundation by working with noted directors and coaches such as Stephen Book (founder of Improvisational Acting Technique, and co-worker of Viola Spolin), Gary Austin (creator of THE GROUNDLINGS), and Andy Goldberg (director of OFF THE WALL at The Improv). COLD TOFU has continued performing improv and sketch comedy throughout their 40-year history.

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MISSION STATEMENT

Founded in 1981, COLD TOFU is the nation’s first Asian American improv & comedy group. COLD TOFU is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and is dedicated to promoting diverse images of Asian Pacific Americans through comedy and to developing multiethnic talent through education and performance.