Fans of Eloise can experience the playful side of this beloved children’s book character, thanks to a new exhibition at The New York Historical Society. Running now through October 9, “Eloise at the Museum” reveals the creative collaboration between cabaret star Kay Thompson (1909–1998) and the young illustrator Hilary Knight (b. 1926) that brought the precocious character to life.
The exhibition showcases more than 75 objects, ranging from original manuscript pages to sketchbooks, portraits, photographs, and vintage dolls. The NYHS presentation fully immerses visitors into Eloise’s world with evocations of the grand lobby of the Plaza Hotel, her bedroom―complete with a storytelling corner―and her bubbly “bawthroom,” where she often made mischief.
A host of family activities bring the Plaza’s most famous resident to life throughout the exhibition’s run, inviting young visitors to explore the exhibition in creative ways.
Eloise merchandise has taken up residence at the New York Historical Society’s gift shop.
To help make the connection even stronger and more unforgettable for young museum goers, the NYHS has stocked its gift shop with an assortment of Eloise dolls and other toys from New York-based YOTTOY. The Eloise exhibition marks the latest collaboration between YOTTOY and the NYHS.
Previous collaborations between the toy company and the museum, which have also helped to bridge the generation gap between existing and new/young fans of these enduring characters, include Madeline and Mo Willems (Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus).
