Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli is likely to perform at an open-air concert for up to 10,000 fans at Collins Barracks, Cork, this summer.
Informed sources say Bocelli, supported by his 70-piece orchestra, will give a two-hour outdoor concert at the barracks military square on July 15th.
It's understood that negotiations for the concert have been continuing for some time but that confirmation was reached earlier this week. The concert is expected to cost about €1 million to stage.
It is being organised by Cork Opera 2005, an organisation distinct from Cork 2005, in conjunction with Aiken Promotions which has been involved in bringing the Tuscany-born tenor to Ireland for shows in Dublin and Belfast.
One informed source said the cost of the concert was likely to mean tickets would be sold at premium prices.
It's expected that, such is Bocelli's popularity, he will attract music-lovers from all over the country and from abroad to the Cork venue.
"He's hugely popular and he's sure to prove a major attraction. It really will capture the imagination," said one enthusiast.
European Capital of Culture director John Kennedy said he would warmly welcome a concert in the city by Bocelli given that, like the recently announced Cork Music and Comedy 2005 Live in the Marquee gigs, it would add to the official programme.
"We would be delighted to have Andrea Bocelli perform in Cork. Anything like that is a bonus.
"I've always believed that the capital of culture designation would encourage commercial promoters to bring top artists to Cork, and it would be great to see that continuing after 2005," he said.
Hosting the concert in Collins Barracks will require major logistical planning involving the Garda, the emergency services and health and safety officials.
Bus operators are expected to provide a park-and-ride service for fans on the night of the concert.
