Cold Tofu will perform on Sunday, April 28, at 7:30 p.m. at Outside In Theatre, 5319 York Blvd., Los Angeles.
The night of improv will feature the main cast and the ensemble doing short-form games and long-form experimentation. Join in and give your suggestions.
Cold Tofu (www.coldtofu.com) 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.
Based in Little Tokyo, Cold Tofu quickly drew a fanbase with staunch support from the community and fellow Asian American entertainers. During a time when comedy was not a viable path for Asian Americans, the founding members wanted to provide opportunities for Asian American actors to perform and explore comedy.
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.
A newly released book is now available chronicling the foundation of Cold Tofu and its pioneers. Spearheaded by Kumagai and Tokuda, “Cold Tofu: The Early Years, 1981-1998” is now available for purchase.
For reservations, click here.