Generic Theater opened their regional premiere of the play Jack Goes Boating last weekend. Director Kathy Strouse describes Jack Goes Boating as “a little play about little people.” Although nowhere as outlandish as Generic’s usual productions, Jack Goes Boating offers a refreshing and honest take on relatable characters.

Showcasing themes of loyalty, healing, and rediscovery, playwright Bob Glaudini’s script chronicles the lives of Jack and his friends through ordinary, but charming vignettes. Our Reggae and pot-loving hero, Jack, drives limousines for a living and has never had a real romantic relationship. Enter Connie, the suitably adorable woman his friends pair him with for a blind date in the first scene of the play.

Generic Theater regular Garney Johnson is committed and superb as Jack, the awkward, lovable leading man, eliciting audible “aw”s on opening night. Johnson demonstrates Jack’s neurosis through impeccably consistent body language, physically shrinking and staring at the ground when unsure and repeating a ridiculous (and hilarious) cough when nervous. Lauren Rodgers is funny and vibrant as Jack’s love interest, Connie; she especially shines in a pivotal moment of unexpected joy and resolution near the end of the play. Interactions between Jack and Connie are the best moments of the play - most entertaining are their cringe-worthy, honest chats in bed.

Miguel Girona, another strong actor and Generic Theater favorite, plays Jack’s friend, Clyde, who’s tasked with teaching Jack how to swim (so he can go boating with Connie), and guiding him through their romantic milestones. Clyde and his wife, Lucy (performed with poise by Angelica Michelle), expose Jack to the tumultuous and painful side of relationships through the destruction of their marriage.

The lackluster opening and awkward transitions are the only weak elements of Jack Goes Boating. The first five minutes drag and don’t entice the audience or articulate the fun to come. Although the play picks up, the transitions and set changes throughout are long and oddly timed. Given the low-scale nature of the set (a simple living room with a bed and platform occasionally wheeled on), more fluid changes should have been possible.

Overall, Jack Goes Boating is an enjoyable theatrical experience. Generic Theater is known for pushing the envelope and crafting unique productions. Although more tame than most Generic Theater shows, top-notch performances by Johnson and Rodgers make Jack Goes Boating worth the trip to Generic’s space in the garage under Chrysler Hall.

Jack Goes Boating plays now through February 18. Next up for Generic Theater is The Little Dog Laughed, March 23 through April 8. Visit generictheater.org for tickets and more information.