Bocelli set to take centre stage

A GROUP of five business people are a hair’s breadth away from signing one of the world’s most famous tenors to perform in Cork next summer.

Negotiations with representatives of Andrea Bocelli are at an advanced stage and it is hoped that a contract will be signed within weeks for a concert in June.

A spokesman said it would cost in the region of €1 million.

“We’re proud Cork men and we are anxious to do something for the city,” the spokesman said.

The move is being undertaken independently of the Capital of Culture organisers, but it is hoped the concert will be put on the official 2005 programme, in what could be the highlight of the year.

Negotiations with the Italian tenor have been going on for past three months. The organisers are also looking at venues which could accommodate 10,000 people.

It is understood a venue on the northside of the city will be identified as soon as Bocelli has signed.

“We’re hoping things will be tied up shortly and that we may be in a position to put tickets on sale before Christmas. We think they’d make a marvellous present,” the spokesman said.

It is expected that tickets will cost anything between €75 and €125.

Most of the €1m needed has already been secured. A small amount of money is still required, but the group intends to tie this down with some sponsorship.

The group, who don’t want to be identified at present, stress they aren’t out to make a profit.

If a profit is made, then it will be distributed to local charities