Meet Betty Blue Eyes
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THIS radio-controlled pig is set to star in Elgin Musical Theatre's latest production.
Made from fibre glass and wood, Betty has the title role in Betty Blue Eyes, a comic musical set not long after the Second World War.
The pig is the creation of electronics whizz Eddie Pratt, who will operate it from the wings of the stage using a joystick.
A retired RAF air electronics engineer, Eddie has been a stalwart of various amateur dramatic groups for nearly three decades, working behind the scenes to put on many shows.
However even he thought it was a task too far when Elgin Musical Theatre asked him to build them a radio-controlled pig.
Eddie, who lives in Hopeman, said: "I didn't think I could do it, but they insisted."
Eddie received a lot of help from his wife Jacky, who carefully sewed the pink cloth onto Betty.
She joked: "It's been quite a task. I actually reckon Eddie found it easier to build our kitchen."
Betty Blues Eyes is a musical version of A Private Function, the award-winning 1984 film written by Alan Bennett which starred Michael Palin, Maggie Smith as well as a string of other well-known names.
It follows the preparations taking place in a small town for the upcoming marriage of the young Queen Elizabeth to Prince Philip.
Meat is still strictly rationed in the aftermath of the War and austerity is biting.
However, a group of local dignitaries believe they have forged a cunning plan to dodge the rules and celebrate the Royal wedding in style.
Betty's part in the Moray show will require her to eat ginger biscuits, make an unpleasant smell and escape from a cupboard.
Elgin Musical Theatre stalwart Ian Duncan, who will play the part of a government meat inspector, said: "Eddie has surpassed all out expectations. What he's created is stunning.
"Betty is definitely going to be the star of the show."
Billed as lively, colourful and fun, Betty Blue Eyes will be staged at Elgin Town Hall on March 5, 6 and 7.
Tickets are now available from the ticketsourse website.
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