It's been an effort nearly two years in the making, and with strong support from followers and supporters in the community, the Sonshine Singers will be performing in what they expect will be their largest ministry ever when they take the stage tonight at C.Y. Stephens Auditorium in Ames.

"The idea of performing at Stephens actually goes back a few years," said Dee Haggard, a member of the Sonshine singers who also serves on the group's board. "One of our followers suggested a few years ago it would be a good venue that would attract more people."

The Sonshine Singers have been no stranger to large audiences and venues outside of Fort Dodge, having performed for as many as 1,400 to 1,500 people at the Oleson Park Bandshell. They have also made appearances at venues such as the Grotto of the Redemption in West Bend and the Iowa State Fair.

This evening's concert will be free, but an offering will be taken. Haggard and Sonshine Singers director Armona Redenius both said the concert has been made possible because of the support and donations received during the Sonshine Singers' other ministries throughout the year.

"Sonshine is paying for everything including the cost for using the venue," said Haggard.

"The support and God's blessing have provided for this ministry since it began 10 years ago," said Redenius. "And God has never failed us."

A group of 200 musicians, including 185 vocalists and 15 instrumentalists, will be featured during the performance. The core group is made up of about 150 singers representing at least 40 area churches. In commemoration of the group's 10th anniversary, 35 to 40 former members and friends of members will be joining the choir at Stephens. The show will feature two hours of the "Best of Sonshine, " with favorite songs from past concerts.

"We're looking forward to seeing the group grow to nearly 200," said Haggard. "We have several former members joining us, and even new members who will be performing for the very first time."

Redenius said there are several buses being chartered to Ames from Fort Dodge, and that the performance is expected to draw a crowd from across the state.

"We've had contacts from all over Iowa," she said. "We really plan to pack Stephens with praise. We promise this will be an endeavor where we will touch the hearts and lives of others through Christ."

Contact Emilie Nelson at (515) 573-2141 or enelson@messengernews.net