A £22m project to revitalise the South West theatre has been announced

Salisbury Playhouse has unveiled plans for a major multi-million pound redevelopment as it marks its 50th anniversary. The venue – one of only three full professional producing theatres in the South West – is proposing to spend £22m on a programme of significant upgrades that will take place over the next three years.

The ‘Stage the Future’ project sets out an ambitious vision for the Playhouse that will see it become net zero and fully accessible, with revamped technical facilities, wardrobe and workshop spaces.

It has also committed to developing “the next generation” of theatre-makers.

Rosa Corbishley, co-chief executive and executive director, said: “This is a pivotal moment for the Playhouse – it’s a chance to honour five decades of world-class theatre and ensure the next 50 years are even greater.

“Our community wants the Playhouse to thrive, and as one of the South West’s only full professional producing theatres, we are a core backbone of British theatrical talent.”

More than 200,000 people from around the UK visit Salisbury Playhouse every year – and it delivers 350 performances annually.

It also runs a community and education programme – known as Take Part – that helps thousands of people, including those from under-represented communities and those with special educational needs or disabilities, to experience the theatre.

The Playhouse said that investing in “world-class” production facilities would create pathways for emerging artists and technicians.

Gareth Machin, co-chief executive and artistic director, said: “Investment in this redevelopment is vital in unlocking our full producing potential – enabling bolder, more ambitious work, and securing the Playhouse as a cultural cornerstone of the South West – for artists, for audiences, for generations.”

The Playhouse has welcomed major stars to its stage over the years including actors Ewan McGregor, Ruby Wax and Rupert Everett, and the late Timothy West and late Prunella Scales.

The theatre is also one of Salisbury’s largest employers, supporting around 350 jobs, and claims to have contributed an estimated £40m to the local economy.

John Glen, MP for Salisbury, added: “Local theatres have the power to galvanise communities, but they also drive economic growth and nurture the grassroots talent that feeds British theatre.

“The transformation of Salisbury Playhouse will secure that mission for generations, developing the talent of today, inspiring the artists of tomorrow, and bringing communities together. Supporting this campaign means ensuring the Playhouse remains open and accessible to all – for the next 50 years and beyond.”

The block deal saw Aditya Birla Sun Life Mutual Fund and JPMorgan (Taiwan) Eastern Technology Fund collectively acquire 33.33 lakh shares at a weighted average price of Rs 300 per share.

Aditya Birla Sun Life Mutual Fund purchased 21.66 lakh shares worth approximately Rs 65 crore, while JPMorgan (Taiwan) Eastern Technology Fund acquired 11.66 lakh shares valued at around Rs 35 crore.

The seller in the transaction was Peak XV Partners Growth Investments III, which offloaded its entire 33.33 lakh-share stake for nearly Rs 100 crore.

Despite Friday’s sharp rally, Go Digit Insurance has remained under pressure over the past year, with the stock declining around 10% during the period. The company currently commands a market capitalisation of Rs 27,993 crore.

The stock’s 52-week high stands at Rs 381.40, while its 52-week low is Rs 295.50.

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On the valuation front, Go Digit Insurance trades at a Price-to-Earnings (P/E) ratio of 49.28 and a Price-to-Book (P/B) ratio of 6.51, reflecting premium market expectations for the insurer’s growth prospects.
The company delivered a robust financial performance in the March 2026 quarter. Revenue rose 9% year-on-year to Rs 3,181 crore, while net profit surged 49.2% YoY to Rs 173 crore, highlighting improved profitability and operational efficiency.The shareholding pattern for the March 2026 quarter reflected mixed investor activity. Promoters marginally reduced their stake in the company from 73.03% to 73.01%, while Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) trimmed their holdings from 8.26% to 8.01%. In contrast, mutual funds increased their ownership from 8.02% to 8.28%, signaling continued confidence from domestic institutional investors despite the reduction in foreign investor participation.

From a technical perspective, the stock’s Relative Strength Index (RSI-14) stands at 40.8. An RSI below 30 is generally considered oversold, while a reading above 70 signals overbought conditions.

Go Digit Insurance is currently trading above 5 out of its 8 key Simple Moving Averages (SMAs), suggesting improving near-term momentum. However, the stock remains below its 100-day, 150-day, and 200-day moving averages, indicating that long-term trend confirmation is still awaited.

The sharp rally following the Rs 100-crore block deal and increased mutual fund participation has put Go Digit Insurance back on investors’ radar. Market participants will closely watch whether the stock can sustain momentum and reclaim key long-term resistance levels in the coming sessions.

(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of Economic Times)

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LOS ANGELES — A routine birthday dinner at a Mexican restaurant in Los Angeles turned into an unforgettable experience when pop star Justin Bieber joined a group of strangers in singing “Happy Birthday,” delighting the celebrants and quickly captivating fans online.

The spontaneous moment unfolded at Escuela Taqueria, where Bieber was dining with his wife Hailey Bieber and friends on May 29. Nearby, a group was celebrating Amanda’s birthday when Bieber noticed the festivities and stepped in to make the occasion special.

Footage captured by Karla Saldana, one of the diners, shows Bieber approaching the table and leading the group — and eventually much of the restaurant — in a rendition of the classic birthday song. The video, shared widely on social media, captures the surprise and joy on the faces of those at the table, with the birthday girl appearing stunned by the celebrity encounter.

Saldana later described the scene in interviews. “He and his friends were having fun and it was such a nice surprise,” she said, adding that she was “shocked” but quickly started filming once he began singing. She called it “Such an LA moment” on social media.

The clip has since gone viral, drawing reactions from fans who praised Bieber for his approachable and kind gesture. Many commented on the heartwarming nature of the interaction, highlighting how the 32-year-old singer took time from his own evening to brighten someone else’s celebration.

A Glimpse Into Bieber’s Life in Los Angeles

Bieber, who has called the Los Angeles area home for years, is no stranger to public appearances despite maintaining a relatively private family life with Hailey. The couple welcomed their first child in 2025, and recent sightings have shown Bieber balancing fatherhood, music projects and occasional outings around the city.

This latest encounter fits a pattern for the Canadian-born artist, known for connecting with fans in unexpected ways throughout his career. From early days as a YouTube sensation to global superstardom, Bieber has often shared personal and fan-focused moments that humanize his larger-than-life persona.

The restaurant, Escuela Taqueria, is a popular spot in Los Angeles known for its vibrant atmosphere and authentic Mexican fare. Diners frequent the venue for casual meals, making it an ideal setting for such an organic interaction. On that evening, the energy shifted from a standard birthday gathering to a memorable event as Bieber’s voice joined the chorus, followed by applause from surrounding tables.

Witnesses noted that Bieber appeared relaxed and engaged, smiling and clapping along after the song. Hailey Bieber was also present, adding to the family-oriented feel of the night. The entire episode lasted only a few minutes but left a lasting impression on those involved.

Bieber’s Enduring Connection With Fans

For Bieber, moments like these underscore the relationship he has cultivated with his dedicated fanbase, often referred to as “Beliebers.” Since bursting onto the scene as a teenager with hits like “Baby” and “One Time,” he has navigated the challenges of fame, personal struggles and professional evolution while consistently engaging with supporters.

His discography spans multiple eras, from the dance-pop of “My World” to more mature reflections in albums like “Changes” and “Justice.” Recent years have seen him explore new musical directions, including collaborations and faith-inspired work, while prioritizing health and family.

This restaurant surprise comes amid a period of relative stability for Bieber. After addressing past mental health challenges publicly, he has spoken about the importance of kindness and presence — qualities evident in his willingness to join strangers in song. Fans online drew parallels to similar fan interactions over the years, from impromptu meet-and-greets to charitable gestures.

The video’s rapid spread reflects the power of social media in amplifying wholesome celebrity stories. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok and X buzzed with reposts, with users sharing their own experiences of Bieber’s generosity or expressing envy for the lucky birthday group.

The Broader Context of Celebrity Encounters in LA

Los Angeles, as the entertainment capital, frequently hosts such chance meetings between stars and the public. Restaurants, coffee shops and public spaces become stages for these unscripted moments that bridge the gap between the famous and everyday people. Bieber’s interaction stands out for its simplicity and sincerity — no staged event, no promotional tie-in, just a genuine acknowledgment of a celebration happening nearby.

Experts in celebrity culture note that such acts can significantly boost public perception. In an era where stars often face scrutiny, positive, low-key gestures like this help reinforce Bieber’s image as down-to-earth despite his massive success. Industry observers point to similar instances with other artists that have strengthened fan loyalty and generated organic publicity.

For Amanda and her friends, the night likely became one for the books. Saldana’s decision to record and share the footage has allowed thousands to vicariously enjoy the surprise, turning a private dinner into a shared cultural moment.

Reactions and Lasting Impact

Social media responses have been overwhelmingly positive. Comments range from “This is why we love him” to “What a legend for doing that.” Some fans expressed hopes that the birthday girl received additional recognition or perhaps even a photo with the singer afterward, though details beyond the song remain limited.

Bieber himself has not publicly commented on the incident, consistent with his approach to personal moments. The family has focused on low-profile living in recent times, with occasional glimpses into their world shared thoughtfully.

This event also highlights the role of video in modern storytelling. What once might have been a fleeting memory captured only in recollections is now preserved and disseminated instantly, creating ripples far beyond the restaurant walls. Storyful, a media agency, helped distribute the footage, ensuring wider reach through news outlets.

As summer approaches in Los Angeles, with its bustling social scene and celebrity presence, such stories serve as reminders of the city’s unique blend of glamour and accessibility. For one group of friends, a birthday dinner became legendary thanks to an unexpected musical guest.

Bieber’s career continues to evolve, with rumors of new music and projects always circulating. Yet it’s these human connections that often resonate most deeply with the public, reminding fans that behind the hits and headlines is an artist who still values simple joys.

In the end, the surprise at Escuela Taqueria exemplified the magic that can happen in everyday settings — a reminder that kindness, even in the form of a shared song, can create lasting memories. For Amanda, it was undoubtedly a birthday to remember, courtesy of one of the world’s most recognizable voices.