Balls 

Are you a night owl? Always on the lookout for something entertaining to do on the weekend that doesn't involve dance parties, the repetitive bar scene, or trying to make it through Saturday Night Live? Balls is always a sure thing. The weekly midnight cabaret is one of the longest-running open mics in town, and that is for a good reason. Performances are always a bit of a wild card, of course, as on any given evening you may find college students presenting a piece they worked hard on in their dorm rooms, a standup trying out new material, a local musician wanting to share an acoustic arrangement of a favorite song, or a coffee-house poet with something abstract and experimental. Host Leslie Ball keeps the positive vibes flowing between sets, which is crucial when the stage jitters take over for some of the new performers. And although the mic is open for all, you must attend at least one show as a spectator before you can sign up to take the stage. 18+. The show starts at midnight. (Host Leslie Ball photographed by Ochen Kaylan) — By Jessica Armbruster

Price: $5