Forging earth, air, fire and water, “Cosmogony” took the audience on a journey to the beginning of the universe with the theater department’s annual dance show.

The show, choreographed by JoEllen Kuhlman and performed by the students of Binghamton’s dance and theater program, was held over the weekend in Osterhout Theater. For Kuhlman, who’s also an expecting mother, “Cosmogony” followed up on last semester’s well-received “Hairspray.”

“Cosmogony” was 90 minutes long and featured choreography styles that include tap, jazz and modern. The four elements were presented through colorful backdrops, props and a global array of music genres.

Two dances in particular were geared toward showcasing the contrasting strengths in male and female bodies. In the first, three males danced in a series of different poses with the spotlights focusing on each during their respective solos. In the second, three female dancers began intertwined on a chair and ended in a similar position but with their arms in a Rosie the Riveter-style pose, representing female empowerment.

“’Cosmogony’ means new beginning, or origin of the universe,” Kuhlman said. “I thought it was a great fit being that dance is coming back to the stage at Binghamton.”

Ten dancers — Deedi Boland, Nicole Dlug, Jared Douglas, Rebecca Evans, Katherine Leenig, Doug Mackay, Erin Murphy, Shelby Reller, Saihou Sissoho and Imani Williams — comprised the cast. They auditioned with a self-choreographed solo and then learned a combination taught by Kuhlman. For Kuhlman, pregnancy made her central role in the show’s production more difficult. But, just like pregnancy, months of labor led to the birth of something beautiful.

“It was a challenge and a bit frustrating at times,” Kuhlman said. “I could not show the moves exactly how I wanted them to look. The dancers did a great job figuring out what I was after.”

With “Cosmogony,” dancers needed to learn the choreography and also express individuality within a synchronized dance group.

“The experience was very professional,” said performer Nicole Dlug, a junior double-majoring in biology and dance. “Everything was handled as if it were a production in the real world. Jo was fantastic as always by supporting the talents we all individually possess and promoted them in each dance we were cast in.”

“Cosmogony” channeled an innovative approach to what would otherwise be a traditional dance showcase. Those who missed out should keep their eyes open for future JoEllen Kuhlman creations. And we’re not just talking about her baby.