"Vikki's secret's out - Victoria Jackson's busting into OU," proclaimed the banner over College Gate.

Indeed, Jackson is performing in The Convo this Saturday for Moms' Weekend, courtesy of the University Programming Council.

Jackson is best known as a former cast member on NBC's Saturday Night Live. She recently appeared on an episode of the X-Files and is currently providing the voice of Mom Needlemeyer on the new Nickelodeon cartoon, Nightmare Ned.

UPC chose Jackson after brainstorming with the council's committee members and surveying students, UPC entertainment chairwoman Ellen Botkin said.

"I think she is someone who

the students can identify with," Botkin said.

"I think moms will relate to her humor," Assistant Director of UPC Mindy Stroh said . "It's always hard to find things for parents and their students."

Parents will also recognize Jackson, which makes her an ideal choice for Moms' Weekend, Botkin said.

Jackson has a history in comedy. She began work on stage, and she was asked to appear on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson more than 20 times.

She toured the country with her comedy act and guest-starred in television shows ranging from The Jeffersons to Diagnosis: Murder.

Jackson joined the cast of Saturday Night Live in 1986.

She originally was trained in gymnastics. It was her ability to hold a handstand for more than a minute that helped get her start in Hollywood.

Jackson also is known for playing the ukulele, a skill she often uses in her act. She recently released a CD of children's songs called Ukulele Lady.

The tickets for the UPC show are $17 for floor seats and $15 for bleacher seats.

The cost of bringing in a performer is immense, Botkin said.

The ticket prices reflect the performer's fees as well as staffing The Convo and promotions, Stroh said.

Brooke Williams, an employee at the Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium Ticket Office, said seats are selling. The small floor area is sold out, Williams said.

UPC expects ticket sales to increase as the show date draws near. Traditionally, Moms' Weekend performances sell the most tickets on the day of the event, Botkin said.

"They're (UPC) expecting a lot of walk-up traffic," Williams said.

"We're still hoping for a good turnout. We're excited to bring this to the students. We hope that this is something everyone will enjoy," Botkin said.

Victoria Jackson will appear in The Convo, Saturday at 8 p.m. Tickets are available at the Memorial Auditorium Ticket Office.