"Ivy + Bean, The Musical," based on the best-selling children's book series by Annie Barrows, tells a delightful story about an unexpected friendship between two second-graders.

The pair never thought they'd be friends. Bean is loud and goofy. Ivy is quiet and full of ideas. But when the girls pair up, there is mischief and laughter at every turn, and their hilarious capers celebrate the joys and thrills of friendship.

"Ivy + Bean, The Musical" will be presented at 1 p.m. Jan. 25, Miller Symphony Hall, Allentown. The show's national tour is launching this month. Productions of it have previously been presented at several theaters and arts centers around the United States.

The show's producer Eva Price collaborated on the musical with the Atlantic Theater Company, New York City. The production, directed by Alison Beatty, had its New York City premiere in fall 2014, where it enjoyed great success with sold-out performances and rave reviews, including The New York Times, which hailed the musical as "a wry, rollicking show with infectious spirit."

"It is a true adaptation of the first book, about how Ivy and Bean met," says Price in a phone interview.

The chapter book for young readers, first in a series of 10, received five awards after its first year of publication, including being named one of "The Best Children's Books of 2006" by Kirkus Reviews. The books are illustrated by Sophie Blackall.

"Ivy + Bean, The Musical" has a book, music and lyrics by Scott Elmegreen. Songs include "Pancake Court," "You Gotta Be Good" and "I'm In Charge Now."

Amidst the hijinks and laughter, the musical presents lessons about the challenges of family and friendship. "It has great messages and heartfelt storytelling," Price says.

"It's a story about self-expression, cooperation and learning to get along, about coming into your own. The kids in the story have a transformation."

The performers are professional New York actors in their 20s who are excited to embark on this tour. "For most of them, it's their first national tour."

Price says there has been a decline in children's theater projects in recent years, citing the many forms of entertainment available to children today.

That is why musicals such as "Ivy + Bean, The Musical," which are funny and energetic, are so important for young audiences, she says.

"The magic of theater is that there is a hidden message, an emotional pull, in a funny song or scene. The audience can take something away."

"Ivy + Bean, The Musical" tickets: Miller Symphony Hall Box Office, 23 N. Sixth St., Allentown; allentownsymphony.org; 610-432-6715