Carol Stein, a beloved pianist known as the “Piano Lady” or “Hat Lady,” has returned to Walt Disney World after a brief retirement. After performing full-time until late 2022 and taking time off for travel, she resumed her role at Casey’s Corner on Main Street U.S.A. Her 36-year career includes stints at Pleasure Island, EPCOT venues like Rose & Crown Pub, and various resort locations. Stein, who began reading music at age two, previously performed internationally in Switzerland, Hong Kong, and Tokyo before joining Disney in 1990. She now plays ragtime classics and favorite Disney songs from Alan Menken’s compositions for guests. Stein describes her return as exciting yet slightly nerve-wracking, comparing it to starting a new school year despite decades of experience.
Key Points:
- Carol Stein began reading music at the age of two and has been performing since then.
- She performed internationally at venues like the Montreux Palace in Switzerland and Century Court in Tokyo before joining Disney World in 1990.
- After retiring in late 2022, she took a sabbatical for travel before returning to perform part-time at Casey’s Corner.
- Stein previously worked as the house musician at Comedy Warehouse and became known as the ‘Hat Lady’ or ‘Piano Lady’ at EPCOT’s Rose & Crown Pub.