Ed Sheeran

Odyssey Arena, Belfast Wed/Thurs 7.30pm £27.50 048-90739074

Big oaks from little acorns grow etc. Three years ago, this UK singer-songwriter (albeit one with very firm Irish connections; if we applied the granny rule he’d definitely be one of ours) was playing small pub venues up and down the length of Britain; after the gig he’d cadge a kip in someone’s house, sleeping on the sofa or floor, then up again the next morning to the next town and his next gig.

Now? Well, following the commercial success of last year’s + album (his debut proper after several self-released EPs), Ed Sheeran’s star has risen so high we're bending backwards just to see it. But how will a a singer-songwriter manage to make these big-venue gigs (and next week’s three-night run at Dublin’s O2) and his bedsit music so intimate you’ll think you’re at Whelan’s? Hhhmmm. We’ll get back to you on that.

Can't see that? Catch this:Vibe for Philo, Tonight, Dublin

TONY CLAYTON-LEA