Working For the Weekend

Navigating the UCB Theatre as an Asian-American Woman

This piece reflects my personal experience as an improviser at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre in New York City. It’s a privilege to share my story and I thank you for taking the time to read it.

(L to R) Waiting to march in the Del Close Marathon opening parade, 2004; Backstage at UCBT Hell’s Kitchen following Asian AF‘s November 2019 show (Photo by Arin Sang-urai)

I, Risa Sang-urai Harms, wish to be placed on a UCB Weekend Team. I bring a wealth of experience, an eagerness to perform, and, as an Asian-American mother over 40, multiple perspectives that are currently lacking from UCB’s most elite stage.

It’s terrifying and embarrassing to be so naked in my ambition. There’s no reason to believe that asserting myself publicly will yield the outcome I desire. But I do know that nothing will change if I simply sit back and wait my turn. In essence, I’ve been waiting for nearly 20 years.

I took my first improv class at UCB in October, 2001. After completing my formal training, I auditioned successfully for my first House (aka Harold) Team. I was a Harold Team member from 2003–2010.

During my 6-year tenure, I was the only Asian woman performing on Harold Night. To my knowledge, no Asian woman has ever been placed on a Weekend Team. For this barrier to remain unbroken in New York City in 2019 is gutting.