For the last 36 years, Carol has been found playing different pianos throughout the Walt Disney World Resort. Now, she is bringing her infectious smile and talents to Main Street, U.S.A. to tickle the ivories at Casey’s Corner.
“Casey’s Corner is such a joyful, high-energy place, and I’m thrilled to be part of it. At the same time, it feels a little like the first day of school,” explained Carol. “Even after playing piano since I was — four years old, starting something new still comes with excitement and a few nerves. I’ve spent a lot of time preparing for this moment, learning new songs and revisiting favorites I haven’t had the opportunity to play before. I’m excited to bring that music and energy to our guests.”
Carol’s life has been one that has been connected with music. From a very early age, her family inspired her to learn music. By two years old, she was starting to read music.
A Central Florida native, she began her Disney journey in 1990 at Pleasure Island’s Comedy Warehouse. There, she performed and entertained guests nightly. This kicked off a remarkable career that would see her performing throughout the Walt Disney World Resort.
The variety of venues that Carol has played at throughout Walt Disney World includes the Rose & Crown Pub, festivals at EPCOT, the Hoop-De-Doo Musical Revue at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, and also the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. The last one is her favorite. She is now adding to her musical resume Casey’s Corner, where she is playing classic ragtime tunes.
Carol is busier than ever now. She travels the world and hangs out with cast member friends. When not busy with those things, she plays incredible tunes for guests. This includes some of her favorite music from composer Alan Menken, like The Hunchback of Notre Dame.
“I love music with a passion. I’ve been doing it my whole life. Honestly, I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t playing the piano. And I love Disney. The positive energy that the Disney brand brings is so powerful. As a musician and entertainer, you sometimes forget the impact you can have on people. Here, through live performance, we get the chance to create those personal connections and touch people’s lives in a really special way.”
Carol shared that she feels fortunate to continue to grow in her Disney career and be able to create magical moments.
“Growing up with Walt Disney World right here in Central Florida and then having the opportunity to become part of it, while sharing what I love most, music, with guests who love Disney, is something I never take for granted.”
Carol also shared that bringing joy to others through music has always been her goal. This is sometimes done by playing a guest’s favorite Disney song or helping someone create a new musical memory. This is a mission that is inspired by one of her favorite Disney characters.
“Tinker Bell has always been my favorite character. She tinkers with things and fixes things that are broken, and I like to do that with my music. If somebody is sad, I want to make them happy. If somebody’s already happy and has a special song they want to hear, I love being able to play it for them. Tinker Bell is sassy; she spreads joy, and pixie dust. That’s what I hope to bring to guests through my music.”
With a career at Disney that has continued for over three decades, Carol is still finding new ways to create magical moments for guests. This time, she will be doing this one song at a time at the end of Main Street, U.S.A.
What do you think of Carol now performing at the piano at the Magic Kingdom? Are you excited to see her perform there? Have you seen her perform before? What is your favorite tune you have heard her play? Share your thoughts, memories, and opinions in the comments below!
