OSWEGO, N.Y. -- After months and months of practice and preparation, the show is finally here. Musicians and singers from across the country are teaming up with SUNY Oswego's college choir, orchestra and festival chorus to illustrate the life and work of Charles Darwin in “The Origin.”

"There really aren't music pieces that are written about science and so he saw this wonderful opportunity to delve into Darwin's work and the man just comes alive in this production," said Artswego coordinator Mary Avrakotos.

The college's arts and music programs will play a big role in the performance, thanks to professors Mary Avrakotos and Dr. Julie Pretzat, who have worked with composer Richard Einhorn in the past. The professors see the production as a learning tool for their students.

"Just having so many of our students on stage with professionals. Top level professionals from California singing right next door to our undergraduates, it's really great boost for our students," said Pretzat.

The show will include film segments, music, as well as Kitka, a California acapella group with a rather unique sound.

"The Kitka group. That's one of the most haunting sounds in the world. The Balkan music style is not very well-known in the United States," said Einhorn.

What is well-known is Darwin and his theories of evolution and natural selection. But Einhorn promises the show won't preach to the audience.

"I hope they will enjoy an introduction to Darwin if they don't know him, and if they do know him, I hope they will enjoy all the private jokes I put into the piece," said Einhorn.

"The Origin" features over 200 performers. Of those performers, about 80 of them are students at SUNY Oswego.

Like most performances, the crew always hopes for good reviews, because this performance could go a long way in raising the profile of the school's arts and music program.