Carmel Monthly-April 2024

TRE ON MAIN

Chris Evans

CARMEL EVENTS AND FESTIVALS

MAY 11 JUNE 8 MEET ME ON MAIN 4 – 8 p.m.

MAY 11 MIDTOWN BLOCK PARTY 2 – 6 p.m.

MAY 18 ART OF WINE 5 – 9 p.m.

MAY 29

CARMEL GAZEBO CONCERTS

(May 29 through Sept 11) Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

BIKE CARMEL EVENTS

3 MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY 9 a.m.

24

MONTHLY

10 Indiana Ballet Conservatory Proudly Presents: The Phantom of the Opera

18 COVER STORY Tre on Main: Setting the Stage for a New Era of Italian Cuisine and Ambiance

This month, Carmel Monthly is thrilled to feature Carmel resident Chris Evans, the visionary behind the renowned Sangiovese Ristorante, and his exciting new venture, Tre, on this month’s cover. New to Carmel’s culinary scene, Evans and his staff are celebrating the grand opening of Tre. This vibrant eatery marks the third venture from Evans and is the crowning jewel in Evans’ culinary portfolio. While the menu will showcase its own distinctive flair, it will pay homage to classic Italian cuisine, a signature characteristic of Sangiovese’s offerings.

Cover Story Writer // Janelle Morrison • Photo // Laura Arick

12 Actors Theatre of Indiana Set to Kick Off 20th Anniversary and New Season

14 Center Presents: Michael Feinstein in “Because Of You: My Tribute to Tony Bennett” featuring the Carnegie Hall Big Band

21 Savor the Carmel Farmers Market Summer Season

CARMEL MONTHLY

PUBLISHER / Neil Lucas neil@collectivepub.com / 317-460-0803

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / Neil Lucas neil@collectivepub.com / 317-460-0803

PUBLISHER / Lena Lucas lena@collectivepub.com / 317-501-0418

DIRECTOR OF SALES / Lena Lucas lena@collectivepub.com / 317-501-0418

HEAD WRITER / Janelle Morrison janelle@collectivepub.com / 317-250-7298

CARMEL

Carmel is a city with miles of paths for walking and biking, an award-winning park system, public art and a variety of events and festivals all year long.

SEE MORE INSIDE

MEET US ALONG THE MONON

Experience Carmel’s walkable, central districts!

Arts & Design District (A)

This premier destination is an Indiana Cultural District, a distinction given to areas with a high concentration of cultural assets. Home to 10 galleries, design-focused businesses and a variety of retail, restaurants and unique residences. Also home to the Indiana Design Center (B)

Midtown Plaza (C)

The award-winning Midtown Plaza and Monon Boulevard, a vibrant revitalization of Carmel’s old industrial area, is one of the city’s most unique gathering spaces. Retail, restaurants and urban-style living surround the Plaza complete with custom ping-pong tables, oversized swings, an outdoor fireplace and a gigantic screen perfect for movies for the kids or major sports events.

The Monon Greenway (D)

The Monon Greenway, formerly the Monon Railroad, runs from the southern border of Carmel and Indianapolis, 96th Street, north to Westfield, Indiana. Carmel maintains the 5.2-mile portion that resides within its borders and is filled with walkers, joggers, cyclists of all abilities and nature enthusiasts.

The Center for the Performing Arts (E)

The Center’s campus includes the 1,500-seat Palladium concert hall, the 500-seat Tarkington Theater and the black-box Studio Theater. The Center hosts hundreds of world-class performances all year long and is home to the Great American Songbook Foundation founded by five-time Grammy Award nominee Michael Feinstein.

Hotel Carmichael (F)

Indiana’s only Autograph Collection Hotel, this 122-room luxury property sits in the heart of the city overlooking The Center for the Performing Arts and Monon Greenway. Catch a show at Feinstein’s, the hotel’s very own sophisticated cabaret-style venue.

Carmel City Center (G)

This mixed-use development is a vibrant and centrally-located space for unique shopping, dining on patios overlooking the city and premier residential options. What was once just acres of farmland is now a culturally rich destination in the heart of the city.

The Proscenium (H)

A newer, award-winning, mixed-use development that features restaurants, retail and luxury residences is the perfect place to lounge outside in the inviting public green space.

The Monon Waterpark (I)

Summertime in Indiana equals hot and humid. Carmel’s Monon Waterpark is perfect for lounging, swimming, relaxing on the Lazy River or testing out your wave-riding skills on the FlowRider Ultimate Surf Machine.

BIKE FRIENDLY

With more than 220 miles of walkable and bikeable paths and trails, Carmel was made for outdoor exploring. Recognized as a Silver Level Bicycle Friendly City by the League of American Bicyclists, Carmel’s streets offer bike paths and intentional connectivity between neighborhoods, districts and parks. More and more residents and visitors are experiencing Carmel on two wheels.

FAMILY FUN RIDES

May 11 June 8 July 13 August 10

SLOW ROLL DINNER CRUISE

June 11 June 25

July 9

August 13

August 27

EVENTS & FESTIVALS

IN CARMEL, INDIANA

ART OF WINE

May 18 - Sip samples from wineries throughout the state of Indiana while you stroll the Carmel Arts & Design District at Art of Wine. This event is free and open to the public but if you are 21+ years of age, you may purchase sampling tickets or a glass or bottle of your favorite wine.

CARMELFEST

July 3 – 4

The annual two-day 4th of July festival is one of Carmel’s longstanding traditions held at Civic Square and Carter Green. CarmelFest features one of the largest July 4th parades in the state, food trucks, activities for all ages, live music and, of course, fireworks.

BREWS ON THE BOULEVARD

August 3 - Carmel’s first beer festival, launched in 2021, features breweries from across the state serving samples along Monon Boulevard in Carmel’s Midtown Plaza. Tasting tickets for those 21+ years of age are required to sample but all are welcome to enjoy the festival.

ARTOMOBILIA

September 7

We promise that you don’t have to be a car-lover to love this event. One of the most colorful and unique events of the year is Artomobilia. The Arts & Design District streets are lined with a stunning array of vehicles from old classics to sleek sports cars and more.

CARMEL ON CANVAS

September 13 – 15

As summer begins to wind down and festival season hits its peak, Carmel’s plein air painting festival brings talented artists to set up their easels and capture the city on canvas. This two-day event includes a plein air paint-out and a judged competition with more than $13,000 in total prizes awarded.

CARMEL INTERNATIONAL

ARTS FESTIVAL

September 28 – 29

This world-class art festival brings in more than 100 juried artists in nine different mediums to provide the community with the finest samplings to purchase and take home.

THE ARTS IN AUTUMN

October 12

The Arts in Autumn, a fun fall arts and crafts festival, stretches from Midtown Plaza to the Indiana Design Center and leads into the Arts & Design District. Enjoy food and beverage vendors, arts and crafts merchants, family fun activities, live music and the arrival of fall.

STAY UP TO DATE!

For information about everything going on in the City of Carmel, visit EventsInCarmel.com

City of Carmel Carmel.IN.gov 317.571.2400

LIGHTS, CAMERA, MUSIC

Unforgettable Moments Await at Feinstein’s!

& 6/7

UPCOMING SHOWS

NORMAN LASITER’S GRAY PRIDE | Pop, Broadway, & the Great American Songbook

ANDIE CASE | Singer, Songwriter, & Covers of Today’s Pop Hits

JAZZ BRUNCH | Hosted by Blair Clark featuring Pavel Polanco-Safadit

YOUR HEART IS HOME | Noblesville Highschool Students Performing Solo & Duet Covers

DUELING PIANOS BY BABY GRAND ENTERTAINMENT | Live Jukebox Experience

BRANDEN & JAMES: UPCLOSE AND MUSICAL | Broadway & Pop Hits Covers

THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC: AN ABBA PARTY | Don Farrell & Crossroads Entertainment BUBBLES UP! LET’S CELEBRATE JIMMY BUFFETT | Presented by Don Farrell

THE AHLWARDT’S PRESENTS: HUMAN JUKEBOX EXPERIENCE | You pick, We Play! DRAG ME TO BRUNCH HOSTED BY PAT YO’ WEAVE | 11 am Show 21+ Only DECEPTION | An Evening of Magic & Lies with David Ranalli

A TRIBUTE TO NAT ‘KING’ COLE WITH BRYAN ENG | Featuring Original Music Visit FeinsteinsHC.com to purchase tickets.

Indiana Ballet Conservatory Proudly Presents:

The Phantom of the Opera

The Tarkington // Saturday, May 25, 4 p.m. & 7 p.m.

positions and eventually joined The Washington Ballet on full scholarship. There, she danced in iconic productions alongside esteemed choreographers. In 2021, Morgan became a company artist with The Sarasota Ballet, later joining Boulder Ballet in 2023. At 22, Morgan is not only a seasoned performer but also an accomplished coach, faculty member at pre-professional ballet schools, and a certified personal trainer. We eagerly anticipate Morgan’s return “home” as a guest artist at Indiana Ballet Conservatory, where her dance journey began.

Get ready for the triumphant return of “PHANTOM OF THE OPERA” to Indiana! Mark your calendars for May 25 at The Tarkington in charming Carmel. Prepare to be swept away by this electrifying full-length story ballet, a brilliant creation by Alyona Yakovleva, the founder and artistic director of Indiana Ballet Conservatory. Purchase your tickets at thecenterpresents.org.

Delve beyond the surface of a simple love story as “Phantom” explores the depths of the human heart, delving into tender vulnerabilities, exquisite desires and searing scars that love compels each character to confront.

In this contemporary adaptation of the 1912 novel, Alyona Yakovleva, the founding artistic director of IBC, transcends clichés with original and electrifying choreography. From classical ballet to contemporary and character styles, Yakovleva’s vision brings a fresh perspective to the timeless tale.

In 2009, Yakovleva debuted her interpretation of “The Phantom of the Opera” as a contemporary ballet at the Madam Walker Theatre in Indianapolis. Now, she’s thrilled to showcase it again, featuring three lead roles, all of whom have trained with IBC.

“I decided to do it again this year,” Yakovleva said. “I have such mature, intelligent and talented students, and I thought this would be fantastic for them to experience contemporary and completely different choreography.”

Morgan’s journey with Indiana Ballet Conservatory began at age eight. With a string of impressive achievements, including medals at international ballet competitions and representing IBC at the Youth America Grand Prix World Finals, Morgan’s talent has taken her to renowned schools like American Ballet Theater and The Paris Opera Ballet. Graduating from IBC at just 15, Morgan garnered multiple trainee

“‘The Phantom of the Opera’ was the first IBC ballet that I saw. It was my first introduction, so it’s a full circle moment [for me] now,” Morgan shared. “I wouldn’t have the career that I have without IBC and their training. No matter where I go, they say my technique is so strong. I’m excited about being back for ‘Phantom’ because I am not only working on my technique but am able to expand my artistry even more and work with the same teachers who built my technique. I think the most important part [of developing this role] is being able to have a connection with my partner, whether it’s Raoul or Phantom, and being able to feel where the connection is coming from in how we’re touching and the eye contact. It’s building layers upon each other, and we’re able to get deeper, artistically, into our roles too.”

PHANTOM - Justin Hamilton

Justin’s ballet journey began at age six as a jaguar at The Joffrey Academy of

CHRISTINE - Morgan Rust

Writer // Janelle Morrison • Photography // Renzulli Photography

Dance in Chicago. After early training at Salt Creek Ballet and Joffrey, Justin pursued pre-professional training at Indiana Ballet Conservatory (IBC) from age nine. At 12, he ventured to Canada’s National Ballet School but faced setbacks due to injuries, leading to a hiatus. Determined to reignite his passion, Justin returned to IBC, dedicating himself to rigorous training for the past two years. We’re thrilled to witness Justin’s graduation this spring and celebrate his new role as a trainee at The Joffrey Academy of Dance.

“I’m coming from a point where Sergey Sergiev, who was IBC’s original Phantom, is my teacher, and so it’s nice to work with him and study how he did it,” Justin said. “I’m kind of looking at what he thought would work and interpret it in my own way because we’re obviously different. I’m finding ways that work best for me, even with emotions, because it’s a pretty intense role to do. I’m not used to doing intense characters. So, this is the first one where I can really go outside of the box and almost create a new character.”

RAOUL - Luke Derksen

Luke’s dance journey began at age five in Georgia, leading him to Indiana Ballet Conservatory in 2018. Initially considering leaving dance, Luke rediscovered his

passion at IBC, excelling technically and artistically in the past six years. He has tackled diverse roles, including Spanish Chocolate, Russian Nougat, and the Wolf, in performances like “The Nutcracker” and “Cippolino,” as well as partnering roles at community events and collaborations. Luke has achieved notable success at competitions like Youth America Grand Prix, winning multiple awards. As a soon-to-be graduate, Luke is exploring his options, whether as a professional dancer or pursuing dance at Indiana University.

“I moved from Georgia to Indiana when I was 13, and IBC was the second place I tried out,” Luke shared. “I’ve really liked it, and I’ve been here for the last six years. IBC has helped improve my technique, flexibility, memory and discipline. It has helped me so much. I like the role of Raoul because of how supportive he is of Christine. He’s there to support and encourage her in the way he feels he needs to be in order for her to grow and learn and become who she’s supposed to be.”

Actors Theatre of Indiana Set to Kick Off

20th Anniversary New Season and

For the past two decades, Actors Theatre of Indiana (ATI) has been enchanting audiences with its unparalleled stage brilliance. Over this time, we’ve witnessed the company’s remarkable growth, evolving into an integral resident company of the Center for the Performing Arts. As the campus itself has flourished since its inception over a decade ago, ATI has stood as a beacon of artistic excellence, contributing vibrancy and depth to the cultural landscape of our community.

Through its dedication to delivering outstanding performances and its unwavering commitment to the arts, ATI has truly become a cornerstone of the performing arts scene, captivating audiences and enriching lives with each production it brings to the stage.

ATI’S 2024-25 SEASON UNVEILED

As they celebrate their 20th Anniversary, ATI has unveiled the captivating lineup for their 2024-2025 season. The curtain will rise on September 13, 2024, with “Ring of Fire,” a musical tribute to the legendary Johnny Cash. Following Cash’s journey from the

vember 1. This romantic comedy, set against the backdrop of a Hungarian perfumery, follows the enchanting tale of Amalia and Georg as they discover love through heartfelt letters exchanged with a mysterious pen pal.

The intrigue continues into 2025 with “Whodunit: the Musical,” debuting on January 31. Adapted from Mary Roberts Rinehart’s mystery novels, this farcical musical whisks audiences away to a Connecticut summer home in 1931, where a series of curious events unfold, culminating in a riotous romp of laughter and suspense.

Closing the season with a bang, “9 to 5” takes the stage on April 25, 2025. Based on the hit movie and featuring music and lyrics by Dolly Parton, this uproarious musical follows three female coworkers as they take matters into their own hands to combat workplace sexism and injustice.

TWO DECADES OF PERFORMANCE AND PROGRESS

cotton fields of Arkansas to the heights of fame, this toe-tapping production promises a soul-stirring experience with iconic hits like “I Walk the Line” and “Ring of Fire.”

Bringing holiday cheer, ATI presents “She

ATI artistic director and co-founder Judy Fitzgerald reflected on ATI’s remarkable 20-year journey, sharing several highs and lows the company has endured. From the early days of relocating to Indiana to the achievement of securing a permanent home on the Center for the Performing Arts’ esteemed campus, ATI has faced and overcome numerous obstacles. Through the challenges of the Great Recession and the unprecedented turmoil of the COVID-19 pandemic, ATI has consistently demonstrated resilience and determination, emerging from each trial even stronger than before.

Despite these adversities, the company has not only persevered but thrived. ATI continues to attract talent from across the nation and maintains steadfast outreach programs that leave a lasting impact on the children of central Indiana, fostering a love for perfor-

Writer // Janelle Morrison • Photography // Courtesy of ATI

mance and nurturing the next generation of artists and enthusiasts alike.

“It’s amazing when you think about all the obstacles and transitions,” Fitzgerald reflected. “We started out in 2004, and we were just waiting to get here [the Center for the Performing Arts campus]. Former Mayor Jim Brainard believed [the Center] was going to happen, and we believed in the vision too. When you look back on it, the last 20 years have really been incredible.”

Fitzgerald exuded optimism when discussing ATI’s future trajectory. With influential figures like Brian Frost, serving as the executive director, Darrin Murrell, contributing as the associate artistic director, and John Murphy, serving as president of the ATI Board of Directors, Fitzgerald expressed a deep sense of confidence in the company’s direction.

Looking ahead to the new season and beyond, Fitzgerald remains committed to furthering ATI’s impact by positioning the company as a destination for equity theater. Through strategic initiatives and a steadfast dedication to artistic excellence, Fitzgerald envisions ATI’s continued growth and influence within the theatrical community.

“I’m so excited because we have people working on funding and sponsorships,” Fitzgerald said. “I’m also excited for this coming season—we had over 1,000 people audition, which is amazing! Our focus is on producing shows that people want to do, and we’re bringing in younger people and engaging the [national] acting community more, so it’s going to be a fun season.”

Fitzgerald conveyed heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support ATI has received over the past two decades, extending appreciation to both long-standing supporters and those who continue to champion the

company’s endeavors today. Recognizing the invaluable contributions of these supporters, Fitzgerald emphasized their role in ATI’s journey and expressed profound gratitude for their belief in the company’s mission and vision. With their steadfast backing, ATI has been able to thrive and evolve.

“We’ve been very blessed,” Fitzgerald expressed. “Every time things just worked out, there was a reason for that. It didn’t just ‘work out.’ It worked because we’ve had people behind us. It was more than luck … it was the ‘plan,’ even if we didn’t know it was the plan at the time. We felt the need for it here [in Carmel] when we came in 2004, and Brainard recognized that need as well. My goal for ATI, going forward, is to continue to do good work. I want people to love to work with us. When we started ATI, we wanted to perform, to give jobs to equity/union members, and to put quality out there … that was and continues to be our goal.”

For more information on these sensational shows and other offerings from Actors Theatre of Indiana, including ticket details, visit atistage.org or call the Center for the Performing Arts box office at 317.843.3800.

CENTER PRESENTS:

MICHAEL FEINSTEIN IN “BECAUSE OF YOU: MY TRIBUTE TO TONY BENNETT” FEATURING THE CARNEGIE HALL BIG BAND

THE PALLADIUM // FRIDAY, MAY 17, 8 P.M. ET

Supported by the Carnegie Hall Big Band, Michael Feinstein pays a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Tony Bennett, bringing his iconic songs to life in a symphony of sound. The performance will feature hits such as “Because of You,” “Rags to Riches,” “I Left My Heart in San Francisco,” “The Best is Yet to Come,” “I Get a Kick Out of You,” “Stranger in Paradise” and many more. Feinstein’s dynamic interpretations, coupled with the grandeur of the big band music, will create an unforgettable night that honors Bennett’s legacy in all its glory. Feinstein’s close friendship with Bennett adds a profound layer to this tribute, as their camaraderie brings authenticity and depth to each note performed.

*This show is not affiliated with the Tony Bennett Estate. This is a “don’t miss” performance! Purchase your tickets at thecenterpresents.org.

Janelle Morrison: Would you mind sharing your first memories of the late Tony Bennett and how your friendship began?

Michael Feinstein: I knew the work of Tony long before we met, and people used to say that my father resembled Tony because my father had a Mediterranean complexion and so did Tony. They had some similar facial features, and so my earliest memories are of hearing people say to my dad, “You know, you kind of look like Tony Bennett.”

The first records I discovered by Tony were some of the early pop things, which I didn’t find very interesting, but as I started to learn about American popular songs, singers, and such, I discovered Tony’s later work where he would dive deeply into the catalogs of the great songwriters. He made a lot of records of songs that would otherwise not have been recorded at all were it not for his taste and keen ability to find a good song.

We met in 1983. Rosemary Clooney was doing a benefit for an organization she co-founded for people with brain injuries because her sister had died of a brain aneurysm. She asked Tony if he would be part of this gala, and so it was in a theater in Long Beach where I first met Tony.

JM: You shared that Mr. Bennett and Ms. Clooney were on a TV show called “Songs for Sale” [1950-1952]. Tell us more about that.

MF: When Tony was first starting out in the business, he was on a live television show [“Songs for Sale”], and they would sing songs that people had submitted, and then judges would vote which was the best song and there would be a prize. So, they would sing all of these cockamamie songs, most

Writer // Janelle Morrison • Photography // Courtesy of the Center for the Performing Arts and D. Todd Moore

of which were not very good, but they were two greatly gifted artists who would make [the songs] sound much better than they were. Tony had said that Rosemary was like a sister to him, and so it was nice to be introduced to him by her.

I remember offering Tony some unknown Gershwin songs because he had done a first recording of a Gershwin song in the ’60s that had been previously unpublished. Tony was always interested in learning as much as he could about the outputs of various songwriters. He always wanted to hear something [songs] he didn’t know.

When I went to New York, Tony took me out on the town to a restaurant to hear a pianist that he thought was wonderful, and he acquainted me with musical spots that he thought I might enjoy and introduced me to people.

He was very generous. He sent me a box of hard-to-find throat lozenges that he would buy in England and bring back because they had some sort of ingredient that was banned here. I don’t think it was anything nefarious, but whatever it was, you couldn’t get [the lozenges] here. So, I was very touched that he sent me a box of these lozenges. And he and Susan would come to dinner when I had a townhouse in NYC. So, we became, happily, friends.

JM: What is one song performed by Mr. Bennett that when you sing it, you

connect with it the most, and it takes you back to those precious memories and remarkable years?

MF: Well, two songs come to mind. “If I Ruled the World,” a song from a British musical called “Pickwick.” I think that, as much as any song, reflects his philosophy of life. He was a lifelong pacifist after fighting in the Second World War. He saw and experienced such horrors and terrible inhumanity that for the rest of his life, he wanted to espouse peace and unity through his music and his art, both vocal and visual. There is an idyllic lyric in that song about how we would all be friends and we would all connect with light and love. I sense the purest part of Tony when I sing that song.

The other song that sprung to mind is a song called “Once Upon a Time” that was from the musical “All American.” Tony did a beautiful recording of that song, and I just sit at the piano accom panying myself. It’s a song of yearning and nostalgia, or a time past when one was young and believed anything was possible. “Once Upon a Time” was released on a single 45, and it was the A side of that record. “I Left My Heart in San Fransisco” was on the B side. That’s one of those examples of the B side becoming the hit song.

JM: Adding to what will already be a magical and memorable night in remem brance of Mr. Bennett is the fact that you will be performing with the Carn egie Hall Big Band. For those that don’t

already know, what is your relationship with this band?

MF: The Carnegie Hall Big Band was something that I hatched with Terrence, my husband. And it was an idea to bring back and to perpetuate the sound of the big bands. A 17-piece band is an extraordinary experience to hear; the brilliance of the musicians, the musical arrangements, the variety and color and the excitement that a great big band brings is unbeatable. Especially when younger people hear live bands … it’s a transporting experience. Most people under the age of perhaps even 30 may not have ever heard music that is not in a compressed file, which means they’re not hearing the full fidelity of something. To hear live music is a fundamentally different experience because of the acoustics and the energy of a live performer.

I know Tony always treasured his relationships with the great bands, Count Basie being his favorite, and [Duke] Ellington and so many others that he worked with over the years. [The big band] seemed to be a sensible component to bring to the Tony Bennett tribute because the musicians, arrangers, the arrangements, songs and songwriters were always important to him. What better way to present this music than with a big band similar to the groups that Tony worked with through the years?

Tre on Main: Setting the Stage for a New Era of Italian Cuisine and Ambiance

Writer // Janelle Morrison • Photography // Laura Arick

This month, Carmel Monthly is thrilled to feature Carmel resident Chris Evans, the visionary behind the renowned Sangiovese Ristorante, and his exciting new venture, Tre, on this month’s cover.

New to Carmel’s culinary scene, Evans and his staff are celebrating the grand opening of Tre, located at 10 E. Main Street. This vibrant eatery marks the third venture from Evans and is the crowning jewel in Evans’ culinary portfolio, boasting a spacious 4,800-square-foot layout with seating for 120 indoors and 50 outdoors, including a private dining area and a well-appointed bar. While the

menu will showcase its own distinctive flair, it will pay homage to classic Italian cuisine, a signature characteristic of Sangiovese’s offerings.

A COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENT CUISINE

Established in 1994, Sangiovese Ristorante is a family-owned and operated establishment dedicated to delivering authentic Italian cuisine and dynamic atmospheres. The opening of Tre is a testament

to Evans’ unwavering commitment to offering superior service, complemented by lively ambiance and excellent cuisine.

Derived from the Italian word for “three,” Tre symbolizes the third installment under the Sangiovese Enterprises umbrella. Tre on Main aims to uphold the tradition of providing a distinguished dining experience, complete with elevated cuisine and an extensive selection of Italian wines.

Tre will be overseen by wine connoisseur and Puglia native Francesco Settanni, with culinary direction provided by Executive Chef Oscar Perez. The restaurant will also feature a bespoke art series titled “La Vita” by acclaimed artist Jason Myers, further enhancing the stunning interior décor.

LA PERFEZIONE!

“I think this is the best corner that was available in Indiana for a restaurant,” Evans expressed. “I’ve said that a couple of times and truly believe it. What has been happening in downtown Carmel is unbelievable. It’s bustling, and Main Street in Carmel is the best street to be on in Central Indiana. It’s phenomenal.” Evans shared that he moved to Carmel when his first son was born.

“There is no better place to raise a family,” Evans said. “The schools are phenomenal, and now we’ve got great restaurants, culture, and it’s this perfect little bubble … it works.”

When asked what it means to be the anchor restaurant for the 1st on Main project, Evans said, “It’s an amazing spot, and I’m excited about what [former Carmel Mayor] Brainard did and pulled off … it worked. This building looks like it’s been here 80 years or so, and it will be here for 200-plus years. It doesn’t feel cookie-cutter because it’s not.”

THE UNIQUELY EXCEPTIONAL DESIGN OF TRE

Evans discussed the distinctions between his designs for the two Sangiovese Ristorante locations and Tre.

“I designed the two Sangiovese [locations] different from one another, which is strange, but I like design and get easily bored [with design],” Evans shared. “I say Sangiovese at Ironworks is the dark, sexy date night spot, and the Fishers location is still an awesome date night spot, but it’s a little brighter and more airy … there’s a lot of windows. Moving here to Carmel, it’s a completely different design. Tre is a passion project that I put more time and energy into. We’re trying to hit people on every single one of their senses, from the materials, lighting package and food. I have a one-of-a-kind custom art package that was created for this restaurant by Jason Myers, who’s world-renowned. I’ve known Jason for about 17 years. He came up with the theme ‘La Vita,’ which means ‘life.’ I didn’t see any of his artwork [for Tre] until it was hung because I know Jason’s work and I wanted to be surprised.”

Evans continued, “The food is still 100% Italian, but we’re representing it in a different manner and taking it up a couple of notches. We’re doing a split bone-in ribeye served alla Fiorentina style, and we’ll have risotto carbonara and caviar [on the menu]. We’re doing what we already do but presenting it differently, from the finishes to the way it’s plated. We’ve brought in a great chef [Perez], and I’ve been collecting wine for this restaurant for two years. We’ve got wines for everybody, and special wines for our wine enthusiasts that will shine! We want people to come here and be mesmerized by what we do, and we want them to walk away feeling full of life. Everyone’s alive, but they’re not all living. Life is an amazing thing, and if we can offer people a two-hour vacation when they come in from the stress of their lives, and they can sit down, put their phones down, and enjoy the experience, that’s what we strive to offer.”

Access to Tre on Main is through the main entrance located off of Range Line Road. The entrance to Tre is distinguished by its extravagant signature blue doors located to the left of the foyer. Adjacent to the 1st on Main building is an attached parking garage for convenience.

and anticipates the hiring of 35 new team members. Individuals interested in joining the team can apply online or contact Francesco Settanni at fsettanni@ sangioveseristorante.com. Join us in extending a warm welcome to Evans and savoring an authentic and unique dining experience at Tre!

For additional details or to make reservations, please visit treonmain.com or call (317) 757-5913.

Savor the Carmel Farmers Market Summer Season

Step into a world of fresh flavors, vibrant colors and community spirit at the 26th Annual Carmel Farmers Summer Market, where the scent of ripe produce fills the air and the lively sounds of market entertainment and friendly fellowship create an atmosphere of joy and connection.

Join us for opening day at Carter Green on Saturday, May 4, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. as we kick off another season of celebrating locally grown and/or produced food and plant products. Amidst the bustling atmosphere, anticipate traditional favorites like the Annual Carmel Fire Department Firehouse Cookoff and special events around the 4th of July.

As we gather once again, expect nothing but the same cherished experiences that make the Carmel Farmers Summer Market a beloved community staple.

NEW FACES TO THE SUMMER MARKET

CFM Market Manager Susan Bock and her fellow committee members are excited to welcome new vendors to the summer market.

G.I. ACRES

G.I. Acres, established in 1965, began with a focus on raising SPF Hampshire swine. Over time, G.I. Acres diversified into cattle and added sheep for family 4-H projects. G.I.’s ewe flock, now at 100, has evolved with genetics from Achor, Cabiness, Miller, Poe and top bucks via AI. In 2022, G.I. Acres introduced Dorpers and Suffolks to enhance carcass quality and size. G.I. Acres has expanded into farm-to-table offerings, prioritizing fresh, hormone-free lamb and free-range eggs.

U-RELISH

U-Relish presents an artisanal, smallbatch collection of nutritious meals designed for slow cooking, featuring beans, peas, lentils and grains. U-Relish’s products are vegan and gluten-free, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences.

Founded by Cara Dafforn and originally located at the Old City Market until 2018, U-Relish found new ownership in 2022 under Kim and Jack Tandy.

PARK WAGYU

Before founding Park Wagyu Cattle, Jason Park, a former staff sergeant in the elite First Ranger Battalion of the U.S. Army, graduated from the rigorous United States Army Ranger School, known as one of the toughest leadership training

courses globally. Following his military service, Jason, alongside his wife Alexandra and their children, established Park Wagyu with a commitment to providing some of the highest quality Wagyu beef available. Together, they ethically and compassionately raise and care for their cattle on their 40-acre farm.

AGUA BLANCA SHRIMP

Agua Blanca made history by becoming the first shrimp farm in America to fully embrace biofloc technology on a commercial scale, heralding a new era in sustainable aquaculture practices. Since its inception in 2017, Agua Blanca has continually pushed the boundaries of shrimp farming. In 2021, Agua Blanca unveiled the revolutionary Shrimpbox prototypes, which have since transformed the industry by enabling shrimp cultivation in diverse climates across the globe. In 2022, Agua Blanca successfully launched its inaugural Shrimpbox farm in Indianapolis, delivering unparalleled freshness to tables nationwide.

“We have several new vendors that are new to the summer market but were at the winter market this past season, so customers and guests may be familiar with them and their products,” Bock said. “G.I. Acres is a popular lamb vendor, and he will be at the [summer] market on the

Writer // Janelle Morrison

Photography // Jennifer Hershberger and CFM

first and third Saturdays every month. I’ve been told by people that I know that his lamb is fantastic.”

Bock continued, “We are also excited to have U-Relish on the second and fourth Saturdays during the market. They make crock pot meals with lentils and beans, and then you add your own protein. Park Wagyu started with us halfway through the winter market and was recommended by our former Wagyu vendor when his full-time job became too time-consuming. Park Wagyu has been fabulous and wonderfully successful in our winter market. Also full-time at our summer market will be Agua Blanca shrimp. They have a shrimp farm in downtown Indianapolis where they grow their own shrimp. We are excited to have all [72] vendors at our summer market this season!”

For more information about the Carmel Farmers Market, visit carmelfarmersmarket.com.

CFM ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE

Every Saturday, May through September - 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

MAY 4, 2024 - Island Breeze

Two steel drums, keyboard, guitar, Island hand percussion and great vocals make this band unique.

MAY 11, 2024 - Stella Luna

Morgan and Tom deliver an acoustic duo full of energy, audience engagement and an exciting variety of tunes you know and love!

MAY 18, 2024 - Tim Wright

Tim Wright has a voice as nimble as his fingers, picking a seemingly endless succession of stringed instruments.

MAY 25, 2024 - Austin Johnson

Austin Johnson is a singer-songwriter, guitarist, producer and entertainer who performs frequently in the Indianapolis area.

JUNE 1, 2024 - Island Breeze

Two steel drums, keyboard, guitar, Island hand percussion and great vocals make this band unique.

JUNE 8, 2024 - Ages Band

Rock from the ‘60s and ‘70s

JUNE 15, 2024 - Whobilados WHOBILADOS (who-bi-LAW-dohs) are well-traveled acoustic musicians who enjoy an eclectic mix of traditional tunes, originals and classic covers.

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