There are plenty of ways to entertain guests at Magic Kingdom.
Disney can build massive rides, launch fireworks above Cinderella Castle, and stage elaborate shows. But some experiences remain much simpler.
A musician sits down at a piano and starts playing.
That tradition is continuing at Casey’s Corner with a Disney veteran who has spent decades entertaining guests throughout Walt Disney World.
Carol Stein is now performing outside the Main Street, U.S.A. restaurant, giving the longtime Disney pianist a new home inside Magic Kingdom.
Carol Stein Makes Her Casey’s Corner Debut
Stein isn't arriving at Walt Disney World as a newcomer.
She has been a Disney cast member for 36 years, with a career that began in 1990.
Even with all that experience, Stein said beginning her Casey’s Corner assignment brought back some familiar nerves.
“Even after playing piano since I was — four years old, starting something new still comes with excitement and a few nerves,” Stein said.
She prepared extensively for the opportunity, adding new songs while returning to music she hasn't been able to perform as frequently.
Now, those preparations are paying off in the middle of Magic Kingdom.
Stein is performing the ragtime classics associated with Casey’s Corner, giving passing guests another piece of live entertainment as they travel through Main Street, U.S.A.
Her Disney Career Started at Pleasure Island
Stein has been surrounded by music for almost her entire life.
Growing up in Central Florida, she learned from her family and began reading music when she was two.
Disney eventually became part of that story.
Stein joined the company in 1990, performing nightly at Comedy Warehouse at Pleasure Island.
Over the following decades, her piano playing took her across Walt Disney World.
She performed at the Rose & Crown Pub and during festivals at EPCOT. Her résumé also includes the Hoop-De-Doo Musical Revue at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground.
Stein has also performed at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, a location Disney says became one of her favorites.
Her newest position brings her into Magic Kingdom and puts her performances directly in the path of thousands of guests traveling through Main Street, U.S.A.
Music Is About More Than the Song
Stein’s approach to performing isn't limited to playing the correct notes.
The interaction with guests matters, too.
“As a musician and entertainer, you sometimes forget the impact you can have on people,” Stein said. “Here, through live performance, we get the chance to create those personal connections and touch people’s lives in a really special way.”
Sometimes that might mean playing someone's favorite Disney song. Other times, it could mean introducing a guest to something completely different.
Stein has a particular appreciation for composer Alan Menken and music connected to The Hunchback of Notre Dame(1996).
She also draws inspiration from Tinker Bell, her favorite Disney character. Stein likes the idea of using music to fix a bad mood or make an already special day even better.
It's a simple philosophy for someone who has spent decades performing.
Play music. Connect with people. Give them a reason to smile.
A Disney Veteran Finds a New Home
Stein has experienced several eras of Walt Disney World since joining the company in 1990.
Now, her career has brought her to Casey’s Corner.
It's a fitting location for a performer who enjoys interacting directly with guests. Rather than sitting inside a traditional theater, Stein can become part of the atmosphere surrounding Main Street, U.S.A.
Guests can intentionally stop to watch or simply discover her performance while walking toward Cinderella Castle.
After 36 years with Disney, Stein is proving there can still be first days.
And for Magic Kingdom guests, one of Walt Disney World’s longtime musicians now has a new place to play.
