The Tokyo Comedy Store is the city's best (i.e.. only) on-going live Improv and stand-up comedy group . Most shows are in English, but the TCS gang also wow the locals with monthly Japanese-language performances.

Roppongi's Cars is the venue for the TCS's Improv group "Spontaneous Confusion," which includes the handsome founding member Chris Wells, actor/narrator and all around sensitive guy Michael Naishtut, actor/narrator Paul Lucas, writer/ Monty DiPietro, thespian/vulgarian Lenne Hardt, and web geek meek Nick Cook. Musical accompaniment is provided by the dancing fingers of Rachel and the lovely, multi-talented Nishi-chan.

Stand-up comics include the uproarious Cloudy B., Australia's cultural ambassador and an alleged hamster killer, Canadian hockey legend and balladeer Herb Irving, Dave 'Cubby' Carter (who is in no way affiliated with the military), and a gaggle of others.

Upcoming Shows:

Thursday, March 19, 8:30-11:00 PM, Improv group "Spontaneous Confusion" at Las Chicas' event space Co:Exist (3407-6864) in Omote Sando. Sunday March 29, 8:00-10:30 PM, Stand-up comics and Improv group "Spontaneous Confusion" at Club Asia in Shibuya (5458-5963). 2500yen includes 1 drink.

Every Wednesday night, Car Crash Comedy, 8:30-11:00PM, Improv group "Spontaneous Confusion" does three sets at Cars in Roppongi (3470-5944). 1,500yen includes one drink.

The TCS funnybone-ticklers also perform some Mondays at Dr Jeekhan's in Shibuya (3476-7811)

In addition to performances, there are on-going workshops in which Spontaneous Confusion reveal the myriad secrets of improvisation techniques. These priceless,time-tested secrets have been passed down from the masters -- fortunately the TCS director still remembers a few of the best ones.

For those who still want more info. or simply enjoy making crank calls, contact TCS director, Michael Naishtut at 3389-5284.

--By Carter Witt
Japan Correspondent