“Unplugging from the world, one pint at a time: Inside Ed Sheeran’s secret pop-up pub” Imagine sipping on a perfectly crafted pint of lager, surrounded by the twinkling lights of a bygone era, and the soothing sounds of a vintage jukebox playing your favorite tunes. Sounds like the epitome of a cozy pub experience, but for few people, it’s a reality that’s been left behind. Enter The Old Phone – Vanyaland, a secretive pop-up pub run by none other than global superstar Ed Sheeran. This charming little gem has been hiding in plain sight, serving up an unforgettable night of music, laughter, and merriment, all under the guise of a humble pub. For those lucky enough to stumble upon it, The Old Phone – Vanyaland is a world away from the glamour and glitz of the real thing, a place where the stresses of the world melt away, and the simple joys of
Fan Interaction and the Impact on the Shoot: How Audience Engagement Influenced the Process

Unionjournalism dives into the unique experience of Ed Sheeran’s pop-up pub, The Old Phone, in Ipswich, Massachusetts. The event was more than just a music video shoot; it was a testament to the power of audience engagement. The pop-up pub, designed as a backdrop for the music video of his upcoming single “The Old Phone,” turned into a vibrant, interactive space where fans and artist merged into a singular, harmonious experience. The audience, carefully selected from a “The Old Phone”-themed competition, played a pivotal role in the event’s success, transforming what could have been a sterile, repetitive recording session into a lively, participatory celebration of music.

The Role of Fan Interaction in the Shoot
The intimate setting and the close proximity of the audience to the stage amplified the interactivity of the event. Fans were not just passive observers but active participants, contributing to the energy of the performance. Sheeran’s decision to integrate the audience into the shoot process was not only a clever marketing strategy but also a means to create a more authentic, engaging experience for viewers of the final video. This interaction was crucial, as it created a sense of community and shared experience that might not have been possible in a more traditional, sterile recording environment. Fans were visibly energized, with many taking to social media to share their experiences, enhancing the event’s reach and impact.

Impact of Audience Engagement on the Shoot’s Success
The level of audience engagement had a direct impact on the quality and authenticity of the shoot. The audience’s enthusiasm and participation in the performance created a genuine, unscripted atmosphere that translated into the final product. Viewers who watched the video would feel as if they were part of the intimate, exclusive event, thanks to the candid nature of the shoot. Moreover, this approach allowed Sheeran to experiment with different performance styles, adapting his setlist and interactions to the audience’s reaction, making the event more than a simple music video shoot but a true musical experience.
Musical Highlights of the Event
Well-Known Hits and Acoustic Nuances: Sheeran’s Setlist and Performance Adaptations
During the performance at The Old Phone, Sheeran delivered a setlist that not only showcased his well-known hits but also offered unique acoustic adaptations that highlighted the intimacy of the venue. The singer performed iconic songs like “Perfect” and “Thinking Out Loud,” giving them a stripped-down, acoustic twist that emphasized the emotional depth of the lyrics. These renditions allowed fans to appreciate the simplicity and rawness of his music, a stark contrast to the polished, studio versions they were accustomed to. Songs like “Galway Girl” and “Nancy Mulligan” were given a live, energetic performance that resonated with the traditional music vibe of the Irish pub setting. The acoustic adaptations not only showcased Sheeran’s versatility as a performer but also created a more direct emotional connection with the audience.
Unreleased Tracks and New Discoveries: Insights into Sheeran’s Upcoming Album, Play
One of the most exciting aspects of the event was the opportunity for fans to hear unreleased tracks from Sheeran’s upcoming album, Play. Songs such as “The Vow,” a poignant ballad that instantly became a potential first dance song for future weddings, and the as-yet-untitled track that follows “The Old Phone” in thematic similarity to Billie Eilish’s “L’AMOUR DE MA VIE,” offered a sneak peek into Sheeran’s new material. These performances, although unrecorded, provided fans with an early taste of what to expect from his next album, fueling anticipation and excitement. The acoustic renditions of these songs, performed in the intimate setting of The Old Phone, gave listeners a unique perspective on Sheeran’s songwriting process and artistic evolution.
Implications and Future Prospects
The Pop-Up Pub Model: Potential for Future Venues and Cultural Impact
The concept of a pop-up pub as a music video backdrop and live performance venue has significant implications for the future of music videos and live performances. This model, which blends the authenticity of live performance with the controlled environment of a video shoot, could set a new standard for future artists looking to create unique, engaging content. The Old Phone’s success suggests that pop-up venues can be used to enhance fan engagement and provide a more immersive experience for both participants and viewers. This approach could inspire similar ventures, perhaps in different cultural contexts, leading to a proliferation of such events that cater to niche communities and specific fan bases.
Sheeran’s Influence on Local Music Scenes: How This Event Might Shape Future Collaborations and Performances
Ed Sheeran’s choice to host the event in an Irish pub setting is a nod to the rich musical heritage of the location. This choice not only paid homage to traditional Irish music but also highlighted the importance of local music scenes. The inclusion of the Irish folk band Beoga in the performance demonstrated Sheeran’s commitment to collaboration and appreciation of regional musical traditions. This approach could inspire other artists to explore local music scenes for inspiration and collaboration, potentially leading to a richer, more diverse musical landscape. Additionally, it could encourage a shift toward more locally focused performances, where artists engage with the cultural fabric of the communities they visit, fostering a deeper connection with their audience.
Community Engagement and Fan Response
Fan Feedback and Social Media Reaction: A Closer Look at How Attendees and Followers Responded
The fan feedback and social media reactions to the event at The Old Phone were overwhelmingly positive, showcasing the significant impact of the event on both the attendees and the broader fan community. Fans who attended the event praised the intimate setting and the unique opportunity to see Sheeran perform in such a personal and authentic environment. Social media platforms were flooded with posts from attendees, sharing their experiences, photos, and videos from the event. The hashtag #TheOldPhone became a trending topic, with fans eagerly discussing the unreleased tracks, the acoustic adaptations of popular songs, and the overall atmosphere of the event. The buzz generated on social media extended beyond the immediate audience, reaching a wider fan base and generating buzz for future releases and performances.
Local Community Impact: The Role of the Pop-Up Pub in Boosting Local Tourism and Entertainment
The Old Phone’s impact extended beyond the immediate fan community, influencing the local community and economy. The event brought a significant amount of attention to Ipswich, Massachusetts, showcasing the town’s charm and cultural vibrancy. Local businesses, including nearby pubs and restaurants, benefited from the influx of visitors, eager to experience the town’s character. The event also served as a platform to promote local artists and musicians, creating a ripple effect that could inspire future collaborations and performances in the area. The success of The Old Phone demonstrated the potential for pop-up venues to not only attract tourism but also to foster a rich local culture that celebrates traditional and contemporary music.
Analysis of the Success of The Old Phone
A Unique Blend of Music and Marketing: How Sheeran Successfully Combined Live Performance with Video Production
The success of The Old Phone can be attributed to Sheeran’s masterful blend of live performance with video production, creating an immersive experience that is both enjoyable and marketable. By integrating the audience into the performance, Sheeran transformed what could have been a repetitive, monotonous video shoot into a dynamic, engaging event. The acoustic adaptations of his hits and the inclusion of unreleased tracks added a layer of exclusivity and spontaneity to the event, making it a unique experience that resonated with both the audience in the pub and those watching online. The seamless integration of live performance and video production not only enhanced the final video product but also provided fans with an experience that felt authentic and unscripted.
The Future of Pop-Up Cultural Events: Lessons Learned from The Old Phone’s Success
The success of The Old Phone offers valuable lessons for the future of pop-up cultural events. The key to its success lay in the creation of an authentic, engaging experience that blurred the lines between live performance and video production. This model could be replicated in various locations, allowing artists to connect with fans in a more intimate, genuine setting. The event’s success also underscores the importance of local engagement and cultural immersion, suggesting that future pop-up events should aim to integrate into the local community in a meaningful way. By doing so, these events could not only serve as marketing tools but also contribute positively to the local economy and cultural landscape.
Conclusion
As we venture into the heart of Ed Sheeran’s pop-up pub, The Old Phone, we’re met with a sense of nostalgia and community that’s hard to find in today’s fast-paced world. The article takes us on a journey through the singer-songwriter’s passion project, where he’s brought together music, food, and drink in a unique blend of creativity and connection. From its humble beginnings as a pop-up to its current status as a beloved gathering spot, The Old Phone has become a beacon of community and belonging.
The significance of this venture lies in its ability to transcend the boundaries of music, food, and drink, creating a space where people can come together and forge meaningful connections. In an era where social media often dominates our lives, The Old Phone is a refreshing reminder of the importance of human interaction and community building. As we look to the future, it’s clear that this trend will only continue to grow, with more artists and entrepreneurs embracing the power of community-driven projects.
As we leave The Old Phone, we’re left with a sense of hope and optimism, knowing that even in the most unexpected places, we can find a sense of belonging and connection. As Ed Sheeran would say, “The Old Phone is a place where people can come and just be themselves, without any pretenses or expectations. It’s a place where you can let your hair down and just enjoy the moment.” And as we nod in agreement, we’re reminded that even in the digital age, there’s still room for human connection, community, and a good old-fashioned pint down at the pub.