Eddie Torres is a man who understands that self-pity and moping are privileges for people who, in their lives, have friends and family who unconditionally love them and will listen to their shit. Anything he tells you, he hopes will be entertaining or funny or interesting because he knows you’re not obligated to stay and listen to him. When he slips into sadness, he bounces back fast. He would have made a great uncle.”
-- Stage Directions  (Prologue)

Importance: This is the author's character description of protagonist Eddie. Its somewhat prose-like narration of his character is essentially a tool for the actor and the director to shape the performance, and how he is perceived by the audience.

Jess [is a ] first generation child of an immigrant. Does not come from wealth, nor does she try to seem it. Has a hard time keeping her feelings and opinions to herself. Which has gotten her in...
-- Stage Directions  (Scene One)