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Boston Globe
10 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Boston Globe
Under Daigneault's leadership, SpeakEasy spoke to, and for, many
Last year, Daigneault, now 60, Daigneault has both witnessed and helped to bring about the growth of a robust midsize theater scene. But as he leaves, he's worried about the precarious financial situation midsize theater companies find themselves in due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other factors. (Watertown-based New Repertory Theatre closed two years ago.) Advertisement 'Post-COVID has been the hardest,' said Daigneault. 'Audiences got in the habit of staying home, so they're not going out anymore. Or they're older and still afraid of the health risks. It's been much more of a struggle to sustain ourselves since we've gotten back from COVID.' Advertisement 'The funding community in this city needs to step up and value the art,' he said. 'A $100,000 grant to a midsize theater company is transformative.' He added: 'The midsize theaters need to band together to find ways to bring new audiences to the theater. It's a challenge that we are all facing, so we should get together to figure out how to solve this.' He spoke by phone from the home in Connecticut that he and his husband, the Rt. Rev. Jeffrey W. Mello, bought when Mello was named Bishop Diocesan of the Episcopal Church in Connecticut several years ago. Daigneault's modus operandi at SpeakEasy was a blend of vision and pragmatism. Whether it was a drama, a comedy, a musical, or a combination thereof, he displayed a gift for finding directors, actors, and designers who matched the material. Daigneault with "An American Daughter" playwright Wendy Wasserstein, left, who visited SpeakEasy in October 1998 during the show's run, which Melinda Lopez, right, directed. Courtesy SpeakEasy staged contemporary works that varied in style and subject matter, but had in common a certain polish and vitality, and, sometimes, the ability to start conversations. A 2002 production of 'Bat Boy: The Musical,' about a half-bat, half-boy who falls in love with a girl in a small town in West Virginia, generated so much buzz in Boston that SpeakEasy brought it back for a second run in January 2003, and then for a third run in April 2003. From the start, Daigneault envisioned SpeakEasy and other midsize and small companies as an antidote to what he calls 'museum theater,' in which 'you're watching the show as if it's in a kind of display case, and you're not feeling a connection with what's going on onstage.' With that in mind, Daigneault kept an eye peeled for shows first produced on Broadway, such as Advertisement Karen MacDonald and Paul Daigneault at rehearsals for "Pru Payne" in October of 2024. Nile Scott Studios What animated him for more than three decades, Daigneault said, was the chance to 'mak[e] art to create community,' telling the stories of 'people who are othered or disenfranchised' while not being 'so didactic and preachy that they're not entertaining.' He points to SpeakEasy's January co-production with Front Porch, directed by Simmons, of free of charge, to 'solve racism.' 'It was super-entertaining, but it also punched you in the gut,' Daigneault said. 'I've never been a warrior,' he said. 'But I've been a warrior through the art that I produced. I've never had a formula. Just trying to listen to my gut.' He grew up in Marlborough and Sandwich, graduated from Boston College in 1987, and then spent several years in New York City, where he struggled to land directing jobs. 'I got frustrated, and said 'Forget it, I'm going to go back to Boston and start my own theater company,'' he said. That's what he proceeded to do, along with several friends, including actress Kerry Dowling. Brainstorming names during an apple-picking excursion, they came up with a name drawn from the Prohibition era. 'It was the idea that a speakeasy is where you needed to know the password,' said Daigneault. 'It was underground. That it was cool to be there, that whole idea. The name is saying something.' Advertisement The company's first production was a musical about the turbulent teenage years titled 'Is There Life After High School?' SpeakEasy established a niche for itself that was summed up in the tagline: 'Staging Boston Premieres.' But it was a challenge. In those early years, the actors were paid a small stipend, and Daigneault was not paid at all. 'I had no business experience,' Daigneault said. 'I didn't know how to raise money. I didn't know how to budget. I was learning all of these things as I was going along. We started off really grass-roots, really doing shows that I wanted to direct. Over time, it morphed into what we know today.' 'At first, it was really about us young artists getting a chance to do our work,' he added. 'As far as theater goes, Boston was known as an out-of-town [Broadway] tryout place, and mostly commercial touring productions. I just felt there was a hole here of contemporary shows that were a mirror of our society.' Paul Daignault leads an audience talkback with Richard Kramer and the cast of SpeakEasy Stage Company's production of Kramer's "Theater District" in October 2005. Craig Bailey/Perspective Photo A turning point for SpeakEasy, in Daigneault's view, was the 1995 production of Paul Rudnick's 'Jeffrey,' a comedy about a gay man who swears off sex in the middle of the AIDS epidemic, but finds that vow difficult to fulfill. 'Jeffrey' drew more media attention than SpeakEasy had previously enjoyed. Since then Daigneault has consistently made space on SpeakEasy's stages for stories of gay life, such as Advertisement 'The biggest change is that there's a community of theaters and artists,' Daigneault said. 'I can see my favorite actors at SpeakEasy and then I can see them at the Lyric and at Greater Boston Stage Company, all in one season. Sometimes there's real competition in terms of licensing the shows or getting the actors that you want. But we've been able to foster excellence because excellent artists have chosen to live and work here.' He's been one of them. Now he's starting a new journey. Literally. Daigneault has visited 35 of America's 63 national parks. '28 to go!' as he put it in an email. And he plans to continue teaching musical theater at the Boston Conservatory at Berklee. But he's also looking forward to the most protracted period of inaction and relaxation he's ever had. 'It's time,' Daigneault said. 'I could do rehearsals for the rest of my life. I love it, love it, love it. But it starts to wear on you, the funding [challenges], the day-to day.' 'I wanted to make sure that the people who are at SpeakEasy are finding joy in it — much like I did in 1992 — and can take the company to a whole new level.' Don Aucoin can be reached at
West Australian
3 days ago
- Business
- West Australian
Perth tipped to have second-lowest rate of businesses going bust over the next year, says CreditorWatch
Perth is tipped to have the second-lowest rate of business failures among the capital cities over the next 12 months, as new figures from credit analysts CreditorWatch hint at a brighter outlook. Adelaide leads the pack, with the city expected to have the lowest rate of businesses going bust over the next year, at 5.15 per cent. It was followed by Perth with a forecast failure rate of 5.2 per cent, then Melbourne (5.81 per cent), Brisbane (5.83 per cent), and Sydney (6.2 per cent). Fresh data from CreditorWatch, to be released on Wednesday, also showed an easing in two key measures of business stress in May. Insolvencies have stabilised to be down 0.9 per cent from April to May, and have now dropped 12 per cent from their peak in November. Meanwhile, business-to-business payment defaults dipped 11.8 per cent in May and were down 18.3 per cent from their December peak. CreditorWatch said the drops suggested the stage three tax cuts — which came into effect last July — as well as the recent interest rate cuts from the Reserve Bank of Australia, slowing inflation and fiscal support measures were beginning to alleviate some pressures on Australian businesses. But CreditorWatch chief executive Patrick Coghlan warned some sectors remained under pressure, with rising insolvencies being recorded in healthcare and social assistance, retail, transportation, hiring and real estate. Easing insolvency trends were evident in hospitality and construction, which were previously the most challenged sectors. 'Post-COVID, we've seen inflation hit 30-year highs. Those rapid price increases across the economy don't reverse when the inflation rate comes down again,' Mr Coghlan said, adding higher prices were locked in and remained as permanent pressures for businesses. '(Higher prices are) generally passed on to consumers, but this is very difficult for businesses in sectors such as hospitality. 'We won't see conditions improve sustainably for businesses in discretionary sectors until consumers see their wages grow ahead of costs for some time.' CreditorWatch chief economist Ivan Colhoun said the Fair Work Commission's decision to give the country's lowest paid workers a pay bump of 3.5 per cent from $24.10 to $24.94 per hour would benefit consumers, but applied further pressure on businesses — particularly those in the retail and hospitality sectors. 'The good thing is that we will likely see these funds recycled into the economy,' he said. 'Interest rate relief by the RBA, as inflation has moderated, should also improve cash flow a little for both consumers and businesses alike.' Gosnells in Perth's south-east is expected to have the highest rate of business failures in WA over the next year, with 7.2 per cent of businesses in the suburb predicted to close down. It was followed by Rockingham with a default rate of about 7 per cent. WA Insolvency Solutions last week warned the State looked set for a surge in business collapses as the Australian Taxation Office clamps down on ageing debts.
Hi Dubai
10-06-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Export Opportunities: Using Dubai as a Global Trade Hub
Dubai sparkles as a global trade powerhouse, a city where ambition meets opportunity in a dazzling convergence of East and West. Its skyline, a blend of futuristic towers and cultural heritage, mirrors its role as a bridge between continents, economies and markets. For Dubai residents, this is a springboard for businesses to reach the world. With its strategic location, cutting-edge infrastructure and relentless drive to diversify, Dubai has cemented its reputation as a global trade hub, making it an ideal base for exporters looking to tap into international markets. The urgency to export has never been greater. Post-COVID recovery has accelerated global demand for diverse goods and services, from halal foods to tech solutions. As economies rebound, businesses in Dubai are uniquely positioned to meet this demand. The city's proximity to high-growth regions like Asia, Africa and Europe, combined with its business-friendly policies, creates a launchpad for entrepreneurs and companies eager to go global. Whether you're a startup in Dubai Silicon Oasis or a family-run business in Deira, the opportunities to export are vast and accessible. Dive into why Dubai stands out as a trade hub, which sectors hold the most promise and how local businesses can seize these opportunities to thrive on the world stage. Why Dubai is a Strategic Export Launchpad Dubai's geographic position is a game-changer. Nestled between Europe, Asia and Africa, it serves as a gateway to over 3 billion consumers within a seven-hour flight radius. Markets in the Middle East, South Asia and East Africa are practically neighbors, while Europe is easily accessible. This proximity reduces shipping times and costs, making Dubai an efficient base for reaching diverse markets. The city's infrastructure is world-class. Jebel Ali Port, one of the largest in the world, handles massive cargo volumes with seamless efficiency. Dubai International Airport, a global aviation hub, connects to over 240 destinations, ensuring swift air freight for time-sensitive goods. Logistics facilities like Dubai South's Logistics District streamline supply chains, offering end-to-end solutions. These assets make exporting from Dubai not just feasible but highly competitive. Then there's the business environment. Dubai's free zones, such as Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) and Dubai Airport Freezone (DAFZA), offer 100% foreign ownership, zero customs duties and streamlined processes. Low taxes and minimal bureaucracy further sweeten the deal. The World Bank's Doing Business 2020 report ranked the UAE among the top 20 globally for ease of doing business, a testament to Dubai's commitment to fostering trade. For local entrepreneurs, this means fewer hurdles and faster routes to global markets. Key Sectors with Strong Export Potential Dubai's export potential spans multiple industries, each leveraging the city's strengths to meet global demand. Here are five sectors ripe for opportunity: Food & Beverage The global demand for halal products is booming, projected to reach $3.2 trillion by 2028. Dubai, a leader in halal certification, is perfectly positioned to export halal meat, dairy and packaged foods. Specialty foods like dates, saffron and organic products also find eager markets in Europe and Asia. Fashion & Lifestyle Modest fashion is a $300 billion market, and Dubai's designers are capitalizing on it. Brands like Huda Beauty export globally, blending cultural authenticity with modern appeal. Lifestyle products, from artisanal home decor to sustainable fashion, also resonate with eco-conscious consumers in Europe and North America. Tech & Digital Services Dubai's tech ecosystem is thriving, with startups in fintech, AI and e-commerce gaining traction. Companies like Careem started here and scaled globally. Digital services, including app development and cloud solutions, are in high demand in markets like India and Southeast Asia. Construction Materials & Machinery The global construction boom, especially in Africa and South Asia, drives demand for Dubai's high-quality materials like steel, cement and heavy machinery. Local firms benefit from proximity to these markets and Dubai's logistics prowess, ensuring timely delivery. Perfumes, Cosmetics, and Luxury Goods Dubai's reputation for luxury makes it a natural hub for exporting perfumes and cosmetics. Brands like Oudh Al Anfar tap into the $500 billion global beauty market, with strong demand in Asia and the Middle East. Luxury goods, from watches to jewelry, also thrive, fueled by Dubai's brand as a global luxury capital. Export Channels Available from Dubai Image Source: Bayut Dubai offers multiple pathways for businesses to export, each tailored to different needs. Free Zones Free zones like JAFZA, DAFZA, Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) and Dubai South are export powerhouses. JAFZA alone hosts over 8,000 companies, offering tax exemptions and full repatriation of profits. DAFZA specializes in high-value goods like electronics, while DMCC focuses on commodities like gold and diamonds. These zones simplify logistics and compliance, making them ideal for exporters. Mainland Companies and Global Distributors Mainland companies in Dubai can partner with global distributors to reach markets like Europe and North America. These partnerships provide access to established networks, reducing the need for businesses to build their own from scratch. E-commerce and Digital Platforms E-commerce is a game-changer for exporters. Platforms like Noon, and Tradeling connect Dubai businesses to millions of online shoppers. Tradeling, a B2B marketplace, links exporters with buyers in the MENA region, while Amazon's Global Selling program opens doors to Western markets. These platforms are especially valuable for SMEs looking to test international waters. Government Support & Trade Initiatives Dubai's government is a powerful ally for exporters. The Dubai Chamber of Commerce offers market intelligence, trade missions and networking events to connect businesses with global buyers. Its 'Dubai Global' initiative promotes local companies in key markets like China, India and Africa, organizing trade fairs and B2B meetings. Etihad Credit Insurance (ECI), the UAE's export credit agency, provides financing and insurance to mitigate risks like non-payment. In 2024, ECI supported over AED 2 billion in exports, boosting SME confidence. The UAE's Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) with countries like India and Indonesia lower tariffs and ease market access, benefiting Dubai exporters. For instance, the UAE-India CEPA has slashed duties on 80% of product lines, spurring trade in textiles and electronics. Exporting involves navigating a web of regulations, but Dubai's systems make it manageable. Key requirements include: Documentation and Compliance Exporters need Certificates of Origin, commercial invoices and packing lists. HS codes, which classify products for customs, are critical for smooth clearance. Dubai Customs offers online portals like Dubai Trade to streamline documentation, reducing processing times to hours. Customs and Duties Target markets have varying customs rules. For example, the EU requires detailed product certifications, while GCC countries offer duty-free access under the Gulf Cooperation Council agreement. Understanding these nuances ensures cost-effective exporting. Trade Agreements UAE's trade agreements, like CEPAs, provide tariff benefits. Exporters should study these agreements to maximize savings. The Dubai Chamber's trade advisory services can guide businesses through compliance, ensuring they leverage every advantage. Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them Exporting isn't without hurdles, but solutions exist. Market Research and Product-Market Fit Misjudging demand can sink an export venture. Businesses should use Dubai Chamber's market reports or platforms like Euromonitor to study consumer trends. Testing products in smaller markets before scaling helps validate demand. Logistics and Distribution Shipping delays or high costs can erode profits. Partnering with reliable logistics providers like DP World or using Dubai South's integrated solutions ensures efficiency. Consolidating shipments can also cut costs. Payment Risks and Currency Issues Non-payment or currency fluctuations can hurt. ECI's insurance covers payment risks, while hedging tools from banks like Emirates NBD stabilize currency exposure. Clear contracts with buyers also minimize disputes. Tips for New Exporters Based in Dubai For Dubai-based entrepreneurs new to exporting, these practical steps can help you build a solid foundation: Start Small, Validate Demand Test your product in one or two target markets before scaling up. Use platforms like Amazon, Noon or Shopify to gauge real-world interest with minimal upfront costs. Test your product in one or two target markets before scaling up. Use platforms like Amazon, Noon or Shopify to gauge real-world interest with minimal upfront costs. Work with Local Export Consultants Tap into the expertise of firms like Export Portal or advisors from Dubai Chamber. They can help you navigate regulations, certifications, customs and market entry strategies. Tap into the expertise of firms like Export Portal or advisors from Dubai Chamber. They can help you navigate regulations, certifications, customs and market entry strategies. Attend Trade Fairs and Expos Participate in industry events like Gulfood , Arab Health or GITEX . These connect you directly with buyers and distributors. In 2024, Gulfood alone generated over AED 5 billion in deals for exhibitors. Participate in industry events like , or . These connect you directly with buyers and distributors. In 2024, Gulfood alone generated over AED 5 billion in deals for exhibitors. Leverage B2B Platforms Use portals like Tradeling, Alibaba and Global Sources to connect with international wholesalers. A detailed, professional profile builds credibility and attracts serious buyers. Use portals like Tradeling, Alibaba and Global Sources to connect with international wholesalers. A detailed, professional profile builds credibility and attracts serious buyers. Understand Export Documentation Ensure you're familiar with key documents like the Certificate of Origin, commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading. Mistakes here can delay shipments or block entry. Ensure you're familiar with key documents like the Certificate of Origin, commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading. Mistakes here can delay shipments or block entry. Use Export Credit Insurance Protect your business against non-payment or political risks in overseas markets through providers like Etihad Credit Insurance (ECI) . Protect your business against non-payment or political risks in overseas markets through providers like . Take Advantage of Government Programs Explore support from initiatives like the Dubai Global program or Dubai Chamber International Offices, which provide matchmaking and international market guidance. Explore support from initiatives like the Dubai Global program or Dubai Chamber International Offices, which provide matchmaking and international market guidance. Get Localized Packaging & Certifications Research and meet destination country requirements, whether it's language, Halal certification, or eco-packaging, to avoid customs issues. Research and meet destination country requirements, whether it's language, Halal certification, or eco-packaging, to avoid customs issues. Build a Logistics Strategy Early Work with a reliable freight forwarder or logistics partner in Dubai (like DP World or Aramex) to streamline shipping, warehousing and cross-border compliance. Work with a reliable freight forwarder or logistics partner in Dubai (like DP World or Aramex) to streamline shipping, warehousing and cross-border compliance. Stay Informed About Trade Agreements Take advantage of UAE's CEPA agreements (with India, Indonesia, Turkey, etc.) for reduced tariffs and easier market entry. The world is shifting, and Dubai is perfectly poised to lead the way. As global demand surges and new markets open up, now is the time for Dubai's entrepreneurs, creatives, and innovators to step confidently onto the world stage. With its unmatched connectivity, business-friendly climate, and growing network of trade partnerships, Dubai doesn't just support exports—it accelerates them. Whether you're shipping saffron to Scandinavia or software to Singapore, your gateway is right here. So take that first step. The infrastructure is in place, the support is strong, and the opportunity is real. From the heart of the UAE to every corner of the globe, your export journey can start today—and it can start in Dubai. Also Read: Import and Export Business in Dubai: Set-Up Guide Looking to set up an import-export business in Dubai? Here are the benefits and hurdles of setting up a successful import-export business. Can Foreigners Really Own 100% of a Business in the UAE? Here's the Truth Explore the evolution of foreign ownership restrictions in the UAE, from their historical roots to the groundbreaking 2020 reforms and the sectors that still require local ownership. A Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Businesses in UAE Mainland The Ministry of Economy provides clear guidance on the steps involved in establishing a business in the UAE mainland. Read more on how to set up a business in UAE mainland. Unlocking golden opportunities: Top Sectors to Invest in Dubai Want to get the best bet on your money? Here are the top sectors to invest in Dubai. Is it possible to set up a company or invest in the UAE without physical presence in the country? Reader wants to know if it is possible to explore investment opportunities or run a business without being a resident.
NDTV
09-06-2025
- Business
- NDTV
Godrej's Tanya Dubash-Promoted Realty Firm Buys Mumbai Flat For Rs 226 Crore
Shaula Real Estates, linked to Adi Godrej's daughter, bought a luxury duplex in Worli, Mumbai, for Rs 225.76 crore. The 11,485 sq ft apartment is part of an under-construction project, Naman Xana, set to finish by 2027. Mumbai: Private real estate firm Shaula Real Estates, where the daughter of Godrej Industries Chairman Adi Godrej is a director, has purchased a duplex apartment in a luxury housing project at Worli in Mumbai for nearly Rs 226 crore. Tanya Arvind Dubash, the eldest daughter of industrialist Adi Godrej, and Clement George Pinto are directors in Shaula Real Estates Pvt Ltd, according to sources. The company has been incorporated on March 26, 2025, in Mumbai. In a statement on Monday, real estate consultant Square Yards said, "Shaula Real Estates has purchased a duplex apartment in the Naman Xana project located in Worli, Mumbai, for Rs 225.76 crore". Square Yards said it has seen property registration documents. The transaction was registered in May 2025. Godrej Industries did not comment on the transaction. The purchased property is part of Naman Xana, an under-construction luxury residential project. As per RERA, the project is spread over 0.64 acres and is scheduled for completion by 2027. The transaction was a primary sale and the apartment was purchased from Naman Residency Pvt Ltd and Karp Estate Pvt Ltd. The duplex unit has a carpet area of 9,214 sq ft and a balcony of 1,227 sq ft. The total built-up area of the apartment is 11,485 sq ft. "Based on the total transaction value of Rs 225.76 crore, the per sq ft rate works out to approximately Rs 2.45 lakh on the carpet area. On the same total property value, the rate comes to around Rs 1.97 lakh per sq ft on the total built-up area," Square Yards said. Post-COVID pandemic, the Indian real estate market has seen many big-ticket deals, especially from celebrities and industrialists.
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Business Standard
09-06-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
Godrej's Tanya Dubash-promoted firm buys apartment in Mumbai for 226 cr
Private real estate firm Shaula Real Estates, where the daughter of Godrej Industries Chairman Adi Godrej is a director, has purchased a duplex apartment in a luxury housing project at Worli in Mumbai for nearly Rs 226 crore. Tanya Arvind Dubash, the eldest daughter of industrialist Adi Godrej, and Clement George Pinto are directors in Shaula Real Estates Pvt Ltd, according to sources. The company has been incorporated on March 26, 2025, in Mumbai. In a statement on Monday, real estate consultant Square Yards said, "Shaula Real Estates has purchased a duplex apartment in the Naman Xana project located in Worli, Mumbai, for Rs 225.76 crore". Square Yards said it has seen property registration documents. The transaction was registered in May 2025. Godrej Industries did not comment on the transaction. The purchased property is part of Naman Xana, an under-construction luxury residential project. As per RERA, the project is spread over 0.64 acres and is scheduled for completion by 2027. The transaction was a primary sale and the apartment was purchased from Naman Residency Pvt Ltd and Karp Estate Pvt Ltd. The duplex unit has a carpet area of 9,214 sq ft and a balcony of 1,227 sq ft. The total built-up area of the apartment is 11,485 sq ft. "Based on the total transaction value of Rs 225.76 crore, the per sq ft rate works out to approximately Rs 2.45 lakh on the carpet area. On the same total property value, the rate comes to around Rs 1.97 lakh per sq ft on the total built-up area," Square Yards said. Post-COVID pandemic, the Indian real estate market has seen many big-ticket deals, especially from celebrities and industrialists.
