  We derive a Hamiltonian version of the ${\cal PT}$-symmetric discrete
nonlinear Schr\"{o}dinger equation that describes synchronized dynamics of
coupled pendula driven by a periodic movement of their common strings. In the
limit of weak coupling between the pendula, we classify the existence and
spectral stability of breathers (time-periodic solutions localized in the
lattice) supported near one pair of coupled pendula. Orbital stability or
instability of breathers is proved in a subset of the existence region.
