Cold Tofu


Cold Tofu, also known as Cold Tofu Improv, is a non-profit organization and Asian American improv and comedy group based in Los Angeles.

History

Cold Tofu was founded in 1981 and is the first and longest running Asian American improv and comedy troupe in the United States. For its 35th anniversary, Cold Tofu was featured in American Theatre Magazine's list of "theatrical milestones." Though reputed as being an Asian American comedy group, Cold Tofu's roots are multi-cultural. Early members include Amy Hill, Phil LaMarr, Jim MacNerland, Jerry Tondo, Geoff Rivas, Joey Miyashima, Glen Chin and Robert Covarrubias.
In its early years, the group trained with Stephen Book, Gary Austin, and Andy Goldberg. Pat Morita was one of Cold Tofu's first sponsors. During the 1980s, Cold Tofu produced comedy shows that tackled issues of race, diversity and inclusion. Cold Tofu expanded its efforts in the late 1990s to service the community by providing improv workshops where actors and non-actors explored improv techniques to enhance performance and interpersonal skills.
Marilyn Tokuda and Denice Kumagai led Cold Tofu and shared the role of Artistic Director. In 1993, Robert Covarrubias and Helen Ota took over as co-Artistic Directors and served the organization until 2000 when Helen Ota would continue to serve as the sole Artistic Director. In 2013, Jully Lee was appointed the position.

Operations

Cold Tofu's performing cast performs improv shows regularly in Little Tokyo and throughout Los Angeles. Cold Tofu also continues to provides student workshops through their Training Center for actors and non-actors.

Awards