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Tuesday, January 6, 2026 youarecurrent.com

Comic Book in a Day returns Page 3

School board OKs fee adjustment, new course Page 4

EMPOWERING YOUNG WOMEN

Nonprofit provides mentorship, leadership direction for girls Page 9

Student receives Lilly Scholarship Page 5

Eye myths busted Page 7

Local nonprofits receive grants Page 8

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CURRENT IN NOBLESVILLE 01.06.26 • youarecurrent.com

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CURRENT IN NOBLESVILLE

01.06.26 • youarecurrent.com

Comic Book in a Day returns for adult professionals around the world. It takes place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with story presentations beginning around 4:15 p.m. For $60, contestants receive drawing supplies (if registered by Jan. 9), guidance and inspiration from featured artists and a printed copy of their work in the Comic Book in a Day Anthology. Registrants may also use their own supplies or work digitally. To register, visit noblesville-creates.square.site/product/2026-comic-book-in-a-day-artist-challenge/8133?cs=true&cst=custom.

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com The arts organization Noblesville Creates, in partnership with the Hamilton East Public Library, will present the 13th annual Comic Book in a Day Challenge Jan. 16-17. Sponsored by Moonshot Games and Citizens State Bank, the event invites creators of all ages and experience levels to create comic stories. The event will offer virtual and in-person competitions. The in-person event will feature two divisions — a four-hour youth competition for participants 12 and younger and a seven-hour teen and adult competition for ages 13 and older. Participants will develop an original comic from concept to completion, guided by professional artists. This year’s event will be hosted by Erik Lundorf and Victor Dandridge, accomplished comic professionals who will help contestants navigate creative roadblocks, share practical tips and foster collaboration among participants. Dandridge was recently announced as the new deputy director for Noblesville Creates. “Victor’s first big initiative is spearheading the event and working on finding ways to take it to the next level,” said Ailithir McGill, executive director of Noblesville Creates. “So, connecting us with conventions, comic bookstores and other comic professionals throughout the Midwest to emphasize how cool that day is.” Featured artists and judges Stuart Sayger, Gavin Smith and Jackie Crofts will be on-site talking with contestants and visitors, demonstrating techniques, selling artwork and prints and reviewing submissions. Artwork created during the competitions will be scanned and compiled into a trade-paperback style comic anthology. Every registered contestant will receive a printed copy featuring their work once production is complete. WORKSHOPS Leading up to the competitions, Noblesville Creates and HEPL will host free workshops. • Jan. 8: Comic quick tips with Erik Lundorf: hepl.libnet.info/ event/14627004

ADULT AND TEEN DIVISION (IN-PERSON) — JAN. 17

The 13th annual Comic Book in a Day event will be Jan. 16-17. (Photo courtesy of Noblesville Creates)

• Jan. 13: How to draw convincing and meaningful words with Stuart Sayger: hepl.libnet.info/ event/14626869. • Jan. 15: Comic 101 with Victor Dandridge: hepl.libnet.info/ event/14626990. VIP NIGHT — JAN. 16 Dandridge is spearheading the Comic Book in a Day VIP Night for those 21 and older from 7 to 9 p.m. at Ball State Fishers, 8626 E. 116th St. The night will feature nationally recognized comic artists and local creators, complimentary food and drinks, raffles and behind-the-scenes conversations with industry professionals. A highlight of the evening is a Drink & Draw session with Emmy Award– winning artist Joe Wos. “It’ll be a neat experience for any adults in our network who are particularly excited about comics and either want to draw and compete themselves or want to watch other artists compete,” McGill said. Proceeds support Noblesville Creates and year-round Comic Book in a Day programming. For tickets, visit noblesville-creates.square.site/product/comic-book-in-a-day-vip-night/NR6TWNWONFMIUGV4ZP5SATAB?cs=true&cst=custom. ZOOM INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION — JAN. 16 The zoom competition is designed

The 7-hour competition in the Ignite Studio at 5 Municipal Dr. in Fishers begins at 9 a.m. with a pep talk and rules overview. Contestants have until 4 p.m. to complete and submit up to eight pages, followed by presentations starting around 4:30 p.m. Registration is $60 and includes supplies, artistic guidance and a printed anthology. To register, visit noblesville-creates.square.site/product/2026-comic-book-in-a-day-artist-challenge/8133?cs=true&cst=custom. YOUTH DIVISION (IN-PERSON) — JAN. 17 The 4-hour youth competition runs from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., with presentations beginning around 3 p.m. Participants may submit up to four pages. Registration is $40 and includes supplies, guidance and a printed anthology. To register, visit noblesville-creates.square.site/product/2026-comic-book-in-a-day-artist-challenge/8133?cs=true&cst=custom. AWARDS CEREMONY — JAN. 22 The awards ceremony for all ages will be from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Ignite Studio. Top awards from Comic Book in a Day will be presented during the free, public celebration. Judges will announce winners, showcase standout work and recognize creative achievements from all divisions. Those unable to attend can watch via livestream on the Noblesville Creates Facebook page. For more, visit noblesvillecreates. org/comicbookinaday.

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CURRENT IN NOBLESVILLE 01.06.26 • youarecurrent.com

School board OKs fee adjustment, new course By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

 WHAT HAPPENED:The board removed the cost of lunch from tuition for the Little Miller Preschool beginning in the 2026-27 school year.

The Noblesville School Board of Trustees discussed the district’s new financial website, fee adjustments and new course additions at its final meeting of 2025. The next meeting is at 6 p.m. Jan. 20.

 WHAT IT MEANS: Currently, the cost is embedded in tuition, regardless of whether a student purchases a school lunch or brings one.  WHAT’S NEXT: As a result of the approval, families will pay separately for school lunches if they choose to purchase them, allowing the program to better absorb rising costs in supplies and staffing without increasing weekly tuition rates. Families who prefer to pack their child’s lunch will not incur any lunch-related charges.

 WHAT HAPPENED: Noblesville Schools Executive Director of Marketing and Communications Marnie Cooke outlined how the district uses its new financial website, Dollars + $ense, to create transparent communication with the community as part of its strategic plan.

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 WHAT IT MEANS: The website includes financial information, links to Noblesville Schools’ financial documents and answers to frequently asked questions, among other topics.  WHAT’S NEXT: The website will soon have animated videos that explain complex financial topics. For more, visit noblesvilleschools.org/community/ dollars-ense-financial-information.

 WHAT HAPPENED:The school approved the addition of a new course called Introduction to Public Service.  WHAT IT MEANS: The new course allows students to meet the new Indiana Diploma Enlistment Seal requirements. It offers a comprehensive overview of public service, focusing on both military and non-military avenues.  WHAT’S NEXT: The course will be available in the 2026-27 school year. Those who take the course will explore benefits of military service, including personal and professional development, leadership skills and community impact.

DISPATCHES  Fundraiser — Spotlight on Art Benefiting Children, an annual charity event in Hamilton County, raised more than $50,000 for local children’s charities at its 2025 event. The proceeds of Spotlight on Art Benefiting Children were given to the Boys & Girls Club of Noblesville, Prevail, Inc. and Children’s TherAplay Foundation.  Award — Noblesville-based Pickett and Associates recently received two 2025 MUSE Creative and Design Awards, organized by the International Awards Associate. P&A’s entries were chosen from more than 13,000 submissions in the global competition. P&A earned the Publication Magazine 2025 Silver Award distinction for a project

brought to life by two Noblesville High School graduates. In addition, P&A earned a 2025 Gold Award for Strategic Program-PR Campaign.  Chamber Day at the Statehouse set — The Indiana Chamber of Commerce will host the 2026 Chamber Day at the Statehouse Jan. 26 in partnership with the Indiana Chamber Executives Association. The gathering will be followed by the Chamber Day Reception at the Indiana Roof Ballroom. Chamber Day includes a welcome breakfast at the Indiana Statehouse, various networking and informational opportunities, a panel discussion and the Best in Business Awards luncheon. Registration is available online at indianachamber.com/conferences.

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CURRENT IN NOBLESVILLE

01.06.26 • youarecurrent.com

Scholarship recipient named volvement, character, leadership and interviews,” stated Tonya Hyatt, a Noblesville High School senior Yasemember of the Hamilton County Commin Yildirim has been named a 2026 munity Foundation’s board who served Lilly Endowment Community on the selection committee for Scholarship recipient. the Lilly Endowment CommuThe Lilly Endowment Comnity Scholarship for Hamilton munity Scholarship provides County. “The finalists made this full tuition, required fees and a tough decision. Recipients up to $900 per year for required stood out for their consistency books and equipment for four and the way they already make years of full-time undergradua difference for others.” Yildirim ate study at any eligible Indiana Yildirim said the scholarship public or private nonprofit college gives her the opportunity to focus on or university. Recipients are recogher studies without worrying about nized for community involvement, the financial burden of college. academic achievement, character and “Instead of splitting my time beleadership. tween school and work, I’ll be able to Scholars also join the Lilly Scholars engage more in my classes, leadership Network, which connects them with opportunities and campus organizaresources and opportunities to lead tions,” Yildirim stated. “After I graduon campus and in their communities. ate, I’ll be able to walk across the stage Both the scholarship program and LSN without worrying about student debt are supported by grants from Lilly Enthat I will have to carry into my adult dowment to Independent Colleges of life, which is a huge weight off my Indiana. shoulders.” “This was a very strong applicant Learn more about the repool, and our committee took a carecipients at hamiltoncountycf. ful, multistep look at academics, org/2026-lei-scholarship-recipients. recommendations, community innews@currentnoblesville.com

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Boutique Bargain Bash set By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com Boutique Bargain Bash, a shopping event featuring more than 40 local businesses, returns to the Llama Barn at the Hamilton County Fairgrounds from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Jan. 31. Shoppers can expect markdowns on boutique apparel, accessories, shoes, denim, kids items and graphic tees, among other items. Discounts will start at 30 percent off. Amanda Garst, owner of online boutique Variety Row, said the event — which is in its third year — helps local boutique owners clear out inventory while giving shoppers access to deals. “I created this event to support small boutique owners and give shoppers an affordable, fun experience,” Garst said. “It’s the perfect girls day out — coffee, shopping and the best deals you’ll find anywhere from local boutiques.” She said the event has grown. “I have vendors coming from Illinois and all over Indiana,” Garst said. “I

think trying to get rid of inventory at the end of the year is a problem we all have. So, when we can all come together and work together, it’s a lot more beneficial for everyone. We all support each other.” Noblesville participants include Hearts & Hems, Hippie Chic Boutique and Without Borders Boutique. Coffee and food vendors and a vendor selling sodas with different mix-ins also will be on-site. Free tote bags will be given to the first 50 general admission shoppers. General admission is $5. Children 12 and under are admitted free. A VIP shopping hour begins at 9 a.m. VIP tickets are $20. “We added in the VIP shopping hour this year, and those who participate automatically get one of the tote bags and get to shop one hour early before everyone else,” Garst said. “It’s limited to 150 tickets. It’s not as busy and those people get all the good stuff first.” For more, visit varietyrowboutique. com/pages/boutique-bargain-bash.

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Wildcats forward’s mental toughness provides boost By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurent.com Lawrence North High School senior basketball player Brennan Miller’s confidence and mental toughness have helped improve his game. “I have a more hungry mentality this year,” he said. Miller, a three-year starter, averaged 20 Miller points and 12 rebounds per game in the first six games for the Wildcats (6-0). As a junior, the 6-foot-7 forward averaged 13 points, 7.6 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game. “He has improved greatly in his overall strength, stamina, ability to score multiple ways and defense,” Lawrence North coach Chris Giffin said. “Leadership and character are huge strengths of his. He is the best possible leader and captain.” An Indiana Junior All-Star, Miller said his goals include becoming an Indiana All-Star and top 1,000 career points. He accomplished the latter Dec. 29.

Brennan Miller is a three-year starter for the Lawrence North basketball team. (Photo courtesy of Oh Snap Indy)

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK BRENNAN MILLER Favorite athlete: Steph Curry Favorite movie: “Home Alone” Favorite TV show: “The Starting Five” Favorite musician: Forrest Frank Favorite genre of music: Gospel With the graduation of Azavier Robinson, now at Butler University, Miller said he has assumed a larger scoring role. “I’ve always been vocal but just more so,” he said. “There are teachable points for the younger guys.” Although he typically plays power forward, Miller also occasionally plays shooting guard and small forward. Miller was a middle hitter on Law-

rence North’s volleyball team in 2025, the first year boys volleyball was an IHSAA sport. Miller, who never played organized volleyball before last year, said he plans to play again in the spring. “They just told me what I needed to do,” he said. “In volleyball, you have to communicate a lot. I think it helped me rebounding as far as seeing the ball and helping with my reflexes.” Miller, who began playing basketball at age 3, played soccer when he was younger. He competed on the Wildcats’ track and field team as a freshman. Miller has signed to continue his basketball career at NCAA Division I Southern Illinois University Edwards-

ville and plans to major in business administration. “I had some offers from MAC (Mid-American Conference) schools, but the key that separated SIU Edwardsville was the family aspect, and they had a plan for me that I understand to really fulfill myself and grow there,” he said. SIU Edwardsville coach Brian Barone said Miller has a variety of skills. “He has a tremendous motor with the ability to play multiple positions,” Barone stated. “Brennan can play both inside and outside on both and will only improve on that as he develops.” Miller’s older sister, Aerial Miller, played for Lawrence North under Giffin, who was the girls basketball coach before taking the boys job in the 2022-23 season. Brennan Miller has written two books, “3-on-B — 3 Keys to Early Success” and “Fuel for Fire: A 30-day Prayer Journal.” The books are available on Amazon. “A lot of kids have come up to me and read my book, and it’s inspired me to do more things outside of basketball,” he said.

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CURRENT IN NOBLESVILLE

01.06.26 • youarecurrent.com

Eye Myths busted part 1 Commentary by Dr. Amy Iddins “If you sit too close to the TV, you’ll ruin your eyes!” Sound familiar? Most of us have heard this at some point, usually from a well-meaning parent or grandparent. Over the years, countless “eye facts” have been passed down, but many don’t hold up to modern science. Let’s take a look at a few of the most common myths I hear as an optometrist — and what the truth really is.

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CURRENT IN NOBLESVILLE 01.06.26 • youarecurrent.com

Building activity steady

County led the region with 172 new home permits issued news@currentnoblesville.com

The Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis reported in late December 2025 that single-family building permit activity across central Indiana remained stable through November, with total permits year-to-date remaining closely aligned to 2024 levels. According to an announcement from BAGI, the region recorded 9,356 permits for the year through November, compared to 9,378 during the same period last year — a marginal year-over-year difference that reflects a stable market. “Central Indiana’s housing market is transitioning into a more cautious phase,” stated BAGI CEO Chris Hancock. “Builders are responding to economic conditions with discipline, scaling production appropriately, staying aligned with local demand

and prioritizing long term market stability as we move (into) 2026.” In November 2025, Hamilton County led the field in new home permits, totaling 172. Marion County followed with 125, Hendricks County had 85 and Boone County totaled 53. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, national single-family permits and housing starts have declined year-over-year in recent months, while analysis from the National Association of Home Builders shows builders across the nation continuing to pull back amid higher financing costs, slower buyer traffic and ongoing economic uncertainty. “While national markets have experienced sharper pullbacks, central Indiana has remained comparatively steady on a year-to-date basis,” Hancock stated. “Population growth and relative affordability compared to larger metropolitan areas continue to support baseline housing demand in our region.” For more, visit bagi.com.

Nonprofits receive grants news@currentnoblesville.com The Hamilton County Community Foundation awarded $558,000 in grants in 2025, including $405,000 distributed through its 2025 competitive grant round. The grants provide unrestricted operating support to nonprofit organizations working to improve the well-being of individuals and families throughout Hamilton County, according to the organization. “Every grant we award reflects our commitment to strengthening the well-being of our neighbors,” stated Danielle Stiles-Polk, president of HCCF. “Whether expanding access to housing, education, child care or essential social services, nonprofits are leading community change, and HCCF is proud to support their work.” Grant recipients include: • Boys & Girls Club of Noblesville — Funding will support safe and affordable after-school and summer programs for K-12 youth, fostering academic growth, healthy habits and strong character. Low membership costs ensure every child

can participate, removing financial barriers to opportunity. • HAND — With this support, HAND will continue expanding safe, stable and affordable housing in Hamilton County. The grant strengthens HAND’s rental communities, resident resource programs and volunteer initiatives, helping the organization advance housing stability for vulnerable residents. • Teach One to Lead One — Through this grant, Teach One to Lead One will sustain and expand community-based mentoring at Hamilton Heights and Sheridan middle schools. Led by trained local community leaders, the program helps students navigate challenges, discover their potential and build the character and life skills needed to thrive. • Teter Retreat and Organic Farm — Funding will enable year-round produce production and donations for individuals facing food insecurity. The grant also supports community volunteering, educational programs and free access to 3 miles of trails.

DISPATCHES  2026 school board meeting dates announced — The Noblesville Schools Board of Trustees will meet at 6 p.m. Jan. 20; Feb. 17; March 17; April 28; May 19; June 9; July 21; Aug. 18; Sept. 8; Oct. 27; Nov. 17; and Dec. 15 this year. All meetings take place in the Noblesville Schools Educational Services Center Board Room at 18025 River Rd.  Applications open for Hamilton County scholarships — The Hamilton

County Community Foundation is accepting scholarship applications for the 2025–26 academic year. Awards range from $1,000 to full tuition and are open to high school seniors, current college students and adults returning to school. Students can apply for multiple scholarships through a single application at hamiltoncountycf.org/scholarships. The application deadline is Feb. 1, with select scholarships having different timelines.

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EMPOWERING YOUNG WOMEN Nonprofit provides mentorship, leadership direction for girls

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com Grit & Grace Nation, a nationwide nonprofit that equips girls ages 8 to 18 with leadership skills, is continuing to grow its Indiana chapter through skills-building, mentorships and community service. The Indiana chapter meets monthly at different locations on the north side of Indianapolis. Chapter members, led by Westfield resident Melissa Asbury, recently made fleece blankets for Noblesville Fire Station 73 to give to children in emergencies. “In December, we had about 18 or 19 girls make blankets for kiddos and babies and donate them for little ones that get their pajamas cut off due to an emergency,” Asbury said. “We wanted to give them something to give them hope and warmth in those moments.” The Indiana chapter also recently supported the Shepherd Community Center in downtown Indianapolis by assembling hygiene kits with essentials like soap, toothbrushes and tampons. Each group meeting offers different learning or service opportunities. “(This month) we are partnering with (Pence Media Group founder) Nicole Pence, and she is doing a branding session for the girls,” Asbury said. “In February, we’ll be partnering with Kayla Sullivan, who is a previous Fox 59 reporter, and helping the girls project their voice.” Grit & Grace Nation, founded by Emmy-winning journalist and former Fox 59 news anchor Fanchon Stinger, has 16 chapters across the nation. The Indiana chapter has members from Hamilton, Hendricks, Boone and surrounding counties. Noblesville resident Jayna Wallace, 15, has been involved with the Indiana chapter for four years. “Initially, I thought it would be a nice thing to do because of the opportunities presented — like meeting a ton of different people and getting to experience a lot of things,” Wallace said. “But it’s also just a really great environment with people who genuinely care about what you have to say and don’t shut down ideas. That’s a rare thing for an

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

Grit & Grace Nation Indiana chapter members make blankets for the Noblesville Fire Department. (Photos courtesy of Grit & Grace Nation)

Grit & Grace Nation founder Fanchon Stinger, left, and Grit & Grace Nation participant Lauren Taggert.

organization that deals with kids.” She encourages other young girls to participate. “If you want an environment where you feel like you’re going to be heard no matter what you say, and you want a lot of great opportunities to express

yourself, no matter what your interests are, I’d say it’s a great environment for young girls,” Wallace said. Girls who participate also have a chance to win scholarships — $10,000 for middle school students and $25,000 for high school students. “In order to win the scholarship, you have to put together a video on your accolades, your successes that year, how you’ve been a champion for your community and how you demonstrated grit and grace specifically,” Asbury said. When they turn 12, they also have a chance to join an online leadership academy led by Stinger and leadership trainer Stacy James. “They hold Zoom calls on Monday nights for approximately an hour and a half with the girls, and that is all straight leadership,” Asbury said. “They go a lot deeper with the girls in terms of lessons, application and getting to know the girls, so that way they can help further mentor them individually. My daughter is involved in that, and I’ve seen a huge change and confidence boost in her.” Asbury, who has led the Indiana

The most recent addition to Grit & Grace Nation is the Young Professionals group, which launched in October 2025. It is designed for women ages 19-30. “It’s a great opportunity for anyone beyond college or beyond high school to get involved,” Grit & Grace Nation Indiana Chapter Leader Melissa Asbury said. “There’s girls from all over the country that are involved.” Young Professionals participants meet virtually on Sunday evenings for mentorship and access to business leaders who equip them to be successful. “Grit & Grace founder Fanchon Stinger really wants to mentor and lead these girls from a young age to be able to make wise decisions and have wise counsel,” Asbury said. “She’s tied with a lot of amazing people, and because of that, they also will pour into the girls. It creates a lot of healthy, strong bridges to other wonderful women to help young girls move and grow in their careers.” For more, visit thegritandgracenation.org/young-professionals. chapter for two years, said she plans to continue teaching girls about being courageous and navigating hardship. “Girls are going to go through a situation that’s going to test their character, and that’s the point they have to demonstrate grit and grace,” Asbury said. “That’s what we try to teach at every single one of the lessons. A lot of times, the girls get so comfortable they start opening up about things, and it becomes a thing where other girls are pouring into the girl that’s going through a struggle. Over time, the girls start to develop a sisterhood.” The participation fee for the local chapter is $75 annually. For more, visit thegritandgracenation.org. ON THE COVER: Grit & Grace Nation Indiana chapter members donate fleece blankets to Noblesville Fire Station 73. (Photo courtesy of Grit & Grace Nation)

INSIDE & OUT

CURRENT IN NOBLESVILLE 01.06.26 • youarecurrent.com

BLUEPRINT FOR IMPROVEMENT: Commentary by Larry Greene Located in the Vintner’s subdivision of McCordsville, this pool bath addition was thoughtfully designed to blend seamlessly with the home’s existing exterior while adding a functional, elevated interior space for everyday use and entertaining.

A pool bath addition in McCordsville

AFTER

THE BLUEPRINT • Designed as a convenient pool-access bathroom for guests and everyday use. • Exterior materials and rooflines were carefully matched to blend seamlessly with the existing home. • A compact layout maximizes function while maintaining comfort and ease of movement. • Durable, low-maintenance finishes were selected to withstand moisture and frequent use. • Neutral tones and clean lines create a timeless, cohesive interior design.

BEFORE

Larry Greene is the owner of Worthington Design & Remodeling (formerly Case). You may email him at lgreene@worthingtonindy. com or visit worthingtonindy.com for more remodeling inspiration and advice.

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CURRENT IN NOBLESVILLE

01.06.26 • youarecurrent.com

FHS graduate creates 1st film By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Theonysios “Niso” Kapsalis has found his calling. “I found this passion for filmmaking in 2017 and once the passion took off, it never left,” Kapsalis said. “I always knew whether I was 22 or 92, I would be doing film work full time.” A 2020 Fishers High School graduate, Kapsalis is producing his debut film, “Trade Off” through his production company, Boiling Cactus Productions. It was filmed in June 2025 during a seven-day period in Fishers, Bloomington and Muncie. “This is the biggest and would be the first type of larger production for me and for the studio as well,” he said. Kapsalis wrote the script and was the director and executive producer for the 80-minute film. He said he plans to finish the film by the end of February and prepare it for film festivals in the fall. “The film is about two close friends, Ledger and Rash, who are moronic in their own sense,” he said. “They both have an investment opportunity that they are presented with. They are two very unserious characters who get themselves into very serious situations. It has that contrast of comedy and light-heartedness and then these real situations where they tense up and the audience will tense up. These guys aren’t thinking about their next move. They are just go, go, go. One of them acts more impulsively and is very persuasive.” Kapsalis said the characters are mean to each other with a brotherly dynamic. There are 14 actors in the film, with Christian Elijah Leighty as Ledger and Austin Veal as Rash. They are both Indianapolis residents. Kapsalis said they have both worked on different independent productions throughout Indiana. Miles Anderson, a veteran British stage and screen actor, has the other key role. “He’s a very creepy character and

‘THE MOUSETRAP’ “The Mousetrap” runs Jan. 6 to Feb. 15 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards. com. FEINSTEIN’S CABARET “The Rush Experience” is set for Dec. 8, followed by “Sweet Caroline: The Life and Music of Neil Diamond” Dec. 9 and “Joe Wray, One-Man Band” Dec. 10 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. All performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

ICC to host ‘Day of Song’ Theonysios “Niso” Kapsalis gives directions to actor Miles Anderson. (Photo courtesy of Theonysios Kapsalis)

has two prominent scenes,” Kapsalis said. “He is an ominous character, and he gives the energy he can do anything drastic at any moment.” Anderson, who has numerous film and TV credits, had roles in “La La Land” and “The Tragedy of Macbeth” with Denzel Washington and Frances McDormand. The assistant director is Ben Johnson, Kapsalis’ good friend and a Fishers High School graduate. “The project to me is more than just about the film, it’s uplifting the arts community in Indiana,”Kapsalis said. “We have 15 different artists creating merchandise for the film that we will sell for the film — pins, hats, stickers, as well as local artists creating our posters. We have an Indianapolis jazz band, 2LIFETAVERN, creating our score.” Kapsalis said 80 percent of the $15,000 budget went to paying cast and crew. Kapsalis has eight years of experi-

ence running different independent film sets. “Independent filmmaking is something I’m very comfortable with as well as my crew,” he said. After graduating from FHS, Kapsalis originally planned to attend Columbia College Chicago. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he decided to take classes at Indiana University. “I decided that college was not the space for me to grow, so I dropped out of college after one semester at IU,” he said. Kapsalis worked at remote jobs in Colorado, Wyoming and Montana. He began living in Indianapolis in 2023 and started the production company in June 2023. Kapsalis, whose father Dan Kapsalis won a state title as Carmel High School soccer coach in 2006, played soccer growing up and one season for FHS. He played the Frisbee game ultimate with friends during his final two years in high school.

editorial@youarecurrent.com The Indianapolis Children’s Choir is hosting a low-cost, music-filled event for children in preschool through third grade Jan. 24 at the ICC Performing Arts Center, 9111 Allisonville Rd., Indianapolis. The “Day of Song” is an event where families can enroll children in a short, one-day program and tour the center to learn more about the ICC’s program offerings. Music programming will run at various times based on age groups from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and require preregistration for the organization to prepare materials and staff in advance. “The ‘Day of Song’ is really our answer to a community need — which is easier access to music education starting at a young age,” ICC Executive Director Joshua Pedde stated. Registration costs have been kept to a minimum, according to the ICC, to allow more families to participate, plus IPS students and Access Pass holders can register for free by calling the ICC offices to register at 317-940-9640 or by emailing lsouthard@icchoir.org with proof of IPS or Access Pass enrollment.

ENTERTAINMENT

CURRENT IN NOBLESVILLE 01.06.26 • youarecurrent.com

The longest-running play in history!

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Actor returns to stage ew, who must take his uncle’s corpse on a trip to Monte Carlo to inherit $6 million. Like Norma Desmond, Sam Arce figArce, who goes by the nickname of ures he is ready for his close-up. Broadway Sam, has moved into behind“I’m having my ‘Sunset Boulevard’ the-scenes roles. return,” Arce said, referring to the “My love and passion for supporting movie about silent movie star Destheater got me involved with investing mond, who envisions making a and co-producing,” he said. triumphant return to the film “I’ve always wanted to come world. back. I love to perform.” After more than 40 years off A Realtor/broker with F.C. the stage, Arce is performing in Tucker, Arce said there is a lot Actors Theatre of Indiana’s proof physical comedy in the show. duction of the musical “Lucky “I’ve done a lot of theater Stiff” from Jan. 30 to Feb. 15 from the time I was young, and Arce at the Studio Theater at Allied over the years at Tucker, we did Solutions Center for the Performing a lot of skits,” said Arce, treasurer for Arts in Carmel. ATI’s board of directors. “This gives me “It’s been a while. The last time on a chance to do something fun. I love stage was when I was in college at Hofbeing part of the community and I love stra University, and then I did ‘Damn what we’re doing.” Yankees’ at (New York’s) Lincoln CenArce has invested in several shows on ter,” he said. “I was doing dinner theBroadway and London’s West End. ater back in the 1980s.” Following “Lucky Stiff,” ATI presents The 63-year-old Carmel resident plays the musical version of “Sunset Boulethe dead man in the show. There is a vard” from April 24 to May 10. recording played of Arce’s character, For more, visit atistag.org. Tony, giving instructions to his nephBy Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

PUZZLES 1

01.06.26 • youarecurrent.com

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CURRENT IN NOBLESVILLE 01.06.26 • youarecurrent.com

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