COLD TOFU is the nation’s premier Asian American comedy improv and sketch group. It is dedicated to promoting diverse images of Asian Pacific Americans through comedy and to developing multiethnic talent through education and performance.
A nonprofit organization, COLD TOFU was founded in 1981 by Marilyn Tokuda, Denice Kumagai, Judy Momii and Irma Escamilla. At that time, the four founding members wanted to perform comedy encompassing a variety of universal themes that people from many communities could relate. They also wanted to provide an opportunity 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. They were willing to try anything, and as a result, COLD TOFU began to take shape as an improv and sketch group.
Since then, COLD TOFU’s members have created unforgettable characters, sketch materials and improvised scenes. In addition to performing all over Southern California, COLD TOFU has performed throughout the nation in cities such as Seattle, Houston and Washington, D.C. (the Smithsonian Institute). The group has also performed and taught workshops at several campuses such as USC, UCLA, UC Santa Barbara, UC Riverside, Pomona College and the University of Washington.
Under the leadership of its current Artistic Director Helen H. Ota and the Core Cast members, COLD TOFU continues to grow and develop its style of comedy. Today, COLD TOFU has grown close to 30 members who perform improv shows regularly in historic Little Tokyo in Downtown Los Angeles, as well as at various events for community organizations, colleges, and museums throughout the nation. Providing workshops throughout the year, COLD TOFU shares the thrill of performing improv and sketch, while training up-and-coming performers.
