Cold Tofu

Founded in 1981 in Los Angeles, Cold Tofu was created by Marilyn Tokuda, Denice Kumagai, Judy Momii and Irma Escamilla as the nation’s first—and longest-running—Asian American improv and comedy troupe. At a time when Asian Americans rarely appeared in comedy roles, let alone formed their own ensembles, these artists forged space for smart humor rooted in community, identity and cultural insight. Early members included Amy Hill, Phil LaMarr, Jerry Tondo and Geoff Rivas.

Over the decades, Cold Tofu has grown from small living-room sessions to full-scale ensemble productions, touring colleges and community-centers, performing in Los Angeles’ Little Tokyo district and beyond. The group’s work blends short-form and long-form improv, sketch comedy and audience-interaction, often touching on Asian American experience, crossover cultural humor, identity, heritage and the absurdities of everyday life. They have provided not only laughs, but also a training ground for performers of color and an alternative comedic narrative to mainstream stereotyping.

What to expect in a Cold Tofu show: spontaneous, playful, razor-sharp improv based on audience suggestions; sketches and characters that draw from daily life—family dinners, workplace scenes, cultural mix-ups—with a twist; and a vibrant ensemble energy that carries you along while commenting with intelligence and heart. Audiences might witness a rapid-fire improv game, a comedic riff on intergenerational dynamics, or a suddenly surreal scenario built out of a single suggestion. The tone is inclusive, fast-moving and heartfelt, equal parts clever and warm.

Cold Tofu positions itself as more than a comedy troupe—it is a cultural institution that has helped expand the representation of Asian American voices in improvisational comedy, opened pathways for diverse artists, and encouraged laughter that reflects the full spectrum of experience. In their presence, comedy is both entertainment and cultural commentary, delivered with authenticity, ensemble trust and improvisational skill.