MIDDLEBORO — The sun will come out Jan. 27 and 28 when the Nichols Middle School Drama Club presents “Annie Jr.’’ at the school stage.

Opening night is always special but this one will be especially exciting, said director Susan Schobel. 

“This is the first musical Nichols Middle School has put on in three years,’’ she said. “So this is the first musical most of the students in this production have ever been in.’’

In some cases, with Covid-related schedule changes, “it is the first time they have ever been on stage,’’ she said. 

“Annie Jr’’ offers a shortened version of the classic Broadway tale of “Annie,’’ which follows the red-headed orphan from a tough orphanage to the eventual home of the high-living Daddy Warbucks. “Annie  Jr.’’ features fewer songs and is specially edited to be performed by children in a shortened form. 

But classic numbers such as “Tomorrow’’ and “You’re Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile’’ remain in the score and the basics of the story are unchanged. 

Eliza Thornton serves as musical director.

Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children, students and seniors. Tickets are available at the door. 

There will be three performances: 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27 and 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28.