Slane Castle is set for a double concert in 2022 to mark the return of live music events, its owner confirmed on Saturday.
Lord Henry Mountcharles said he was determined to make up for lost time once the pandemic restrictions are lifted.
And he hinted at a live-streamed gig from the castle grounds later this year to mark 40 years of music at the Co Meath venue.
Lord Henry, who has just turned 70, said: “Slane’s hallowed fields have been very quiet over the past while.
“But I do hope to get back to the rock 'n' roll business very soon. It would have been 40 years this year, so I’m slightly heartbroken.
“We had hoped before the pandemic came along to have a bit of a celebration this year.”
With the exception of a drive-in virtual Bon Jovi concert in the coming weeks, the Slane diary is eerily empty for the second consecutive summer.
But Lord Henry is hopeful he can go the same route as Glastonbury with a live-streamed event.
He told Brendan O’Connor on RTE Radio: “It’s fair to say that we are looking very actively at doing a live stream event from Slane.
“The one advantage we have is that we could do both outside and inside and use the interior of the castle.
“I can’t really discuss it because it’s all still under wraps, but we’ve been talking to various people and we’re trying to put the finance together.
“I may be old fashioned but I still just love the live gig.”
The Slane peer has bounced back from a gruelling cancer battle and says he is eager to plan the future for the 80,000 capacity venue by the River Boyne.
He said: “My big hope is for two concerts next year. Discussions are taking place and we’ll see where it goes.
“There are quite a few hurdles to jump, but with this Covid thing, complacency is not a word that should be in the frame.
“That said, one big show would be great, maybe two.
“If I’m presented with two artists or acts that I think really deserve a slot, like with Eminem and Bon Jovi, we’re on.”
