Carmen, Georges Bizet, Atlanta Opera, April/May 2018

Conductor Arthur Fagen keeps the emphasis on strong rhythm in that frenzied scene and elsewhere such as the overture, giving fast passages energy and excitement while also paying due attention to slower melodies, varied textures as they move across orchestral sections.Andrew Alexander, The Atlanta Journal Constitution, April 30, 2018
The Atlanta Opera puts a playful, wily spin on the smoldering “Carmen” Underpinning the whole production was the Atlanta Opera Orchestra performance of Bizet’s memorable music — led by music director Arthur Fagen — with brisk but never overstated energy whether accompanying featured vocalists, choruses or choreography. The orchestra, together with the fine singing, offered up that special dimension that makes opera something far more than theater accompanied by music.
Mark Gresham, Artsartl.com, April 30, 2018