After some uncertainty, the annual Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular on the Charles River Esplanade will live on.
Longtime Executive Producer of the show, David Mugar, 77, announced Monday that starting in 2017, the Boston Pops will take over the role of producer in the annual Independence Day celebration.
"The Pops will be outstanding stewards of a Boston tradition and I know for certain will lead the event into new chapters of success," said Mugar.
The Star Market heir retired after this year's 43rd event. Since 1974, he has donated about $20-million to the event which draws a crowd of more than 500,000 people to the Hatch Shell.
Boston Pops Conductor Keith Lockhart said taking over was a no-brainer.
"We like being in the position of being guardians of our own destiny," Lockhart said.
It's a responsibility Lockhart admits also comes with new challenges.
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"It is a really big show, it is huge show, and of course while we are in the business of live, live concert production," he said. "No one does a concert this big."
The Boston Pops plans to work closely with local and state officials on all aspects of the event. Mugar will now take on an advisory role.
"We look forward to next year's Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular, and continuing to work in partnership with the Pops team to ensure the continuation of this cherished tradition," said Boston Mayor Marty Walsh.
