Eden Espinosa, 36, who plays Elphaba in the Broadway musical “Wicked,” will be performing at the Marsee Auditorium at EC on Oct. 3.

Espinosa grew up in Southern California and was a student in Fullerton College for about a year before moving to New York to pursue acting and singing.

“I think that the difference between New York and Southern California, is that New York has four seasons,” Espinosa said.

The New York crowds and the Los Angeles crowds are quite different for Espinosa.

“The New York crowds are a bit more quiet at plays, while the Los Angeles crowd is more vocal about the performances,” Espinosa said.

Espinosa has been singing and dancing since she was a child. She believes she is “lucky enough to do that for (her) career.”

Espinosa’s performance will include songs from Broadway, as well as artists such as The Beatles. As far as her musical inspirations go, she could not single out one artist.

“There isn’t really a singer that stands out. I enjoy listening to a variety of them,” Espinosa said. “I enjoy oldies such as Motown. I also sometimes listen to music my friends make, who are not very famous, but I enjoy it.”

One of Espinosa’s goals is to begin to compose her second album, as well as complete a two-year acting program she currently undertakes.

“I eventually want to start doing TV and film, as well as originate another role on Broadway,” Espinosa said.

“Those are my short-term goals I guess you could say.”

Whenever she performs in the area, she has family and friends attend her events.

“It feels nice having familiar faces out there,” Espinosa said. “Having my friends and family from SoCal support me. That always feels good.”

Espinosa will be conducting a master class at EC on Oct. 2 at the Recital Hall in the Music Building, prior to her big performance at the Marsee Auditorium.

Espinosa advises any other prospective performers to “really find the things that make you unique and an individual, and cultivate those things.

“Never try to be anyone other than yourself.”

Espinosa advises people to stay in school.

“People need to go to school and not be afraid of making mistakes, as these are learning experiences. Form families in college. These will be your friends for a long time,” Espinosa said.

Tickets are $26 and available at the box office at the Marsee Auditorium and online at www.centerforthearts.org.