Cheap Thrills

Cheap Thrills

You don't have to be loaded to load up on after-dark entertainment in L.A. From live music to TV show tapings to karaoke, there's plenty of low-cost and free fun to be had.

Audiences Unlimited (100 Universal City Plaza, Bldg. 153, Universal City, 91608. 818/260-0041. www.tvtickets.com) helps fill seats for television programs (and sometimes for televised award shows). The free tickets are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Shows that may be taping or filming include Good Morning Americaand Dr. Phil. Note: You must be 16 or older to attend a television taping.

The Happy Ending bar and restaurant offers free 80's-theme karaoke with "Coreyoke" (a live backing band dressed as Corey Haim, Corey Feldman, and sunglasses-at-night guy Cory Hart) every Monday, plus dirt cheap drink specials that'll take you back to the future.

The popular dive the Smog Cutter and its low-cost libations make for a rip-roaring karaoke party. You may have to wait a while for your turn, but at least you don't have to pay.

Order a snack and enjoy Cinespace's movies free. Then, stay and soak up the scene before the crowds come (drinks are often free or cheap before 11).

Monday at Spaceland spotlights promising and extremely varied (punk, country, alternative) artists with monthlong (and free) residencies, so you have up to four chances to catch them.