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Starting today, you can preview NBCUniversal’s new streaming comedy channel Seeso for free as part of a web-only free Beta period that runs through January 6.

Participants who sign up for a Beta membership will be able to sample the mix of new shows, original shows, curated films, and classic stand-up routines on the channel, which is set to launch in January for $3.99 per month. Beta memberships will be limited and offered on a first-come, first served basis.

The preview includes first looks at original series, including The UCB Show, from the hosts, creators, and Upright Citizens Brigade founders Amy Poehler, Matt Walsh, Ian Roberts, and Matt Besser; Sammy J & Randy in Ricketts Lane, a musical comedy about mismatched housemates—one attorney, one puppet; and Before the Morning After, featuring the world’s best comedians, drunk in a diner at 2 a.m. at The Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Beta members also will get a sampling of Seeso’s stand-up comedy, including the special The Guest List: Live From The Barrel House, which will stream live from San Francisco on Tuesday, December 8 at 10 p.m. ET.

During the Beta period new HD editions of Monty Python’s Flying Circus TV episodes and Python movie classics The Meaning of Life, Holy Grail, and Life of Brian will be shown. Next day, full length episodes of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Late Night with Seth Meyers, and 40-plus years of Saturday Night Live also will be available during the Beta preview.

Seeso also will offer autoplay and a "hunt while you watch" function, which will allow Beta participants to look for what to watch next while viewing the current program.

“It’s like the soft-opening of a restaurant,” said Evan Shapiro, EVP of NBCUniversal Digital Enterprises. “Everything is free, while you try out Seeso, sample our great classic comedy and get a taste of our exclusive original series. We think our stuff can help you laugh better, and we want you to Seeso for yourself. But, just like the soft-opening of any new neighborhood club, space is limited and we might ask for your patience while we work out our service.”

Visit seeso.com to sign up for a Beta membership, which requires only a valid email address.