ORLANDO, Fla. — It’s a novelty to see a piano player perched on the keys, as the instrument itself twirls and swirls.
But for one local musician, the creation of a crowd-stopping spectacle like this was only the start of something even more meaningful.
Stephanie Ansley, who created Strolling Productions alongside her husband, is now not only a fixture at places like Disney Springs — but also nonprofit OCA.
“When COVID hit, everything stopped. So, I was really forced to ask myself why I do what I do,” Ansley said. “And I reached out to my friend, ‘Can I come and add some service to my life?’”
Each Monday, Ansley takes her keyboard on the road and sets up to play for OCA, which stands for “opportunity, community and ability.” The nonprofit, located in the Fairview Shores area of Orlando, provides day programming for children and adults with autism.
“I think music’s most essential role is connection; belonging, regulation,” Ansley said. “And I want to be doing that with my music all the time.”
As soon as Ansley wheels her keyboard through the doors, the room transforms. As she plugs in, staff at OCA arrange rows of chairs, and neurodivergent adults in the program make their way over to the makeshift stage.
And as Ansley jokes, plays and croons, hands shoot up with requests for particular songs — from holiday jingles and top 40 hits, to theme songs of movies or the basketball team, the Orlando Magic.
“Music is a transformational connection tool, and I have seen people who struggle to communicate or maybe have low verbal skills be able to request a song they want to hear,” said Ansley.
“We’re just so blessed to have so many amazing community partners and volunteers that come into our space to create happiness,” said Silvia Haas, OCA co-founder and CEO. “Stephanie is a prime example.”
Inspired by her autistic son, Matthew, Haas and other educators founded the nonprofit, envisioning a space that centers on acceptance and dignity for all.
Now, 17 years later, they are working on a second campus location in Seminole County, set to open early in 2026.
In the meantime, Ansley continues to bring her joy and positive energy to each “Karaoke Monday,” with no intention of stopping her volunteer work.
“I feel inspired. I feel inspired and like going and doing more,” she said. “This is the space we give each other here.”