"Christmastime," the sequel to "Eloise at the Plaza," will air at 8 PM ET on ABC-TV; check local listings. A presentation of "The Wonderful World of Disney," the film also features Sofia Vassilieva as the young child who commandeers and charms the Plaza hotel and staff. The cast also includes such theatre regulars as Christine Baranski, Debra Monk and Gavin Creel as well as Jeffrey Tambor, Victor A. Young and Kenneth Welsh.
Written by Elizabeth Chandler, "Eloise at Christmastime" was directed by Kevin Lima. According to production notes, "Awaiting the arrival of her mother from Paris, Eloise plants herself in all of the wedding arrangements, since 'getting married on Christmas Eve is the most romantic thing.' Event coordinator Prunella Stickler, whose impeccable record for spectacular weddings has been uncontested, warns Eloise not to interfere, as the bride and groom are none other than Rachel, the daughter of Plaza owner Mr. Peabody, and her fiancé, Brooks Oliver. But when Eloise becomes suspicious of Brooks' true intentions and discovers that Rachel's old flame, Bill, the Plaza waiter, still harbors feelings for her, Eloise plays matchmaker to ensure that true love will save the day!"
The ABC "Eloise" films are based on the best-selling books by Kay Thompson. Author Thompson published her first Eloise book in 1955. Several sequels followed and the popularity of the character has never truly abated. (The Plaza has long since traded heavily on Eloise's image and legend.) In 2002, "Eloise Takes a Bawth," appeared and was the first new installment in many years. Hilary Knight was responsible for the famous illustrations in the "Eloise" books.
Julie Andrews — who was born in Surrey, England — starred on Broadway in the original productions of The Boyfriend, My Fair Lady and Camelot, the stage version of Victor/Victoria, and in the Off Broadway Stephen Sondheim revue, Putting It Together. She won an Academy Award for her work in "Mary Poppins" and Oscar nominations for "The Sound of Music" and "Victor/Victoria." Andrews' other film credits include "The Americanization of Emily," "Hawaii," "Thoroughly Modern Millie," "Star," "10," "S.O.B." and "That's Life." The regal performer has also starred in several television programs; in fact, her series, "The Julie Andrews Hour," collected seven Emmy Awards. Andrews also writes children's books and is a Goodwill Ambassador for UNIFEM (United Nations Development Fund for Women) and has traveled to several countries on their behalf.
