Prince Charles celebrated his 64th birthday with a visit to Weta Workshop in Wellington.
There, reports the Dominion Post, he met Peter Jackson and Richard Taylor and Hobbit actors Peter Hambleton (Gloin) and Mark Hadlow (Dori).
The Prince was shown props and costumes and watched Peter Hambleton have his makeup done. The Prince apologised for Peter having to go through the makeup process on his account, once he realised how much work was involved.
He said to Peter: “You are quite a way under all of this“.
“Yes, I’m actually good looking,” Peter replied.
Peter Hambleton was excited about meeting Prince Charles.
“It’s huge, it’s a great thrill. I haven’t had a chance to meet any of the royal family before so it’s really exciting.”
He said he hoped to meet the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at the The Hobbit‘s London premiere.
Actor Mark Hadlow was completely in character as Dori when he met Prince Charles, kneeling down on one knee before the royal.
“I offer myself at the request of Sir Peter Jackson for you to command as you see fit, your servant Dori,” he said and presented the Prince with a secret gift.
A beaming Prince Charles was clearly amused by the gesture.
“I can’t tell you how grateful I am – the best birthday present I’ve had in a long time.”
Follow these links to see some of the Prince’s visit on 3 News and watch Mark Hadlow in his Dori costume talk to 3News about The Hobbit.
Follow Evie Bowman on Twitter @ eviebowman
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