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Interviewed by Kelly Sun Written by Isao Tokuhashi Mail to: info@myeyestokyo.com   James Collins (United States) Producer There are many idol groups in Japan. Male groups belonging to Johnny & Associates are popular, not only within Japan but also abroad, with other Asian countries making up the lion’s share of the market. Female groups too, such as AKB48 and their peers, receive widespread support across all age groups. Idol members are typically Japanese citizens. While there are some who have roots in foreign countries, they remain minorities. However, an American man is causing quite a stir in the supposedly “homogenous”

Interviewed & written by Isao Tokuhashi Mail to: info@myeyestokyo.com   Mike Staffa (USA) Improv comedy group founder Photo Credit: Michael Holmes Photo   Almost two years ago we last talked with Mike Staffa, the founder of the Pirates of Tokyo Bay. The group is Tokyo’s only bilingual comedy group specializing in improvisational (improv) comedy. He told us how and why he started his own comedy group in Osaka and Tokyo to bring laughter to audiences regardless of their native language. This year, the Pirates of Tokyo Bay will mark their 5th anniversary with a special show on November 29th at

Edited by Isao Tokuhashi Mail to: itokuhashi@myeyestokyo.com   Mike Staffa (USA) Improv comedy group founder The Pirates of Tokyo Bay (POTB), Tokyo’s only bilingual improv comedy group, which we’ve featured twice before, will mark their 6th anniversary with a special show on December 4th at SuperDeluxe in Roppongi. Mike Staffa, the founder of POTB, tells you about their vast range of activities in Japan and abroad that they’ve done this year. Also he shares what you can see and experience at the upcoming Anniversary show. *Past interviews with Mike; 1st (January 18, 2014) 2nd (November 10, 2015)   日本語   Becoming world-famous