A Hollywood prop maker will be bringing an iconic item to a Bury St Edmunds exhibition as part of a Star Wars takeover day.
Michael Whiteley will be bringing an animatronic head of a Tauntaun – a creature which appeared in Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back – to Moyse’s Hall Museum on Saturday, February 1.
The head is a mould of the original prop.
Michael Whiteley and his Tauntaun from Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back. Picture: Submitted
It forms part of the final weekend of the annual Sci-Fi and Action Exhibition at the West Suffolk Council run museum, celebrating everything from 50 years of Wolverine to 40 years of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
Michael, who created the Tauntauns, also worked on Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi, the Indiana Jones series, Titanic and Who Framed Roger Rabbit.
He will be joined by professional cosplay group Vader Raiders dressed as some of the most beloved Star Wars heroes and villains.
Vader Raiders outside Moyse’s Hall Museum in Bury St Edmunds. Picture: Submitted
Cllr Ian Shipp, cabinet member for leisure at West Suffolk Council, said: “If you’ve already been to our Action and Sci-Fi Exhibition what better excuse do you need to return.
“Hear from Michael Whiteley about his fascinating career working on some of the big screen blockbusters including the original Star Wars trilogy and meet the Tauntaun he created.
“And if you haven’t visited and are a Star War fan, then come along on February 1 and meet a host of Star Wars characters who will be joining us for this special takeover day.
“It’s all part of our continuing investment in leisure and culture for our communities to enjoy and to help them thrive.”
The exhibition in Bury St Edmunds features costumes worn by Tom Hanks in Saving Private Ryan, and George Clooney, Matt Damon, Bill Murray in The Monuments Men.
There are props from films such as Captain America, Wonder Woman, Band of Brothers and Terminator 2.
The exhibition runs to Sunday, February 2.
Admission costs adults £5, child/student (aged 6 to 16) £3, concessions £4.50 and those under five enter for free but must be accompanied by an adult.
Advance booking is recommended at www.moyseshall.org/whats-on/details.cfm?id=945347&ins=1459790
The museum is open Mondays to Saturdays from 10am to 5pm (with last admission at 4pm) and on Sundays from 12pm to 4pm (with last admission at 3pm).