Chris Ball's work with the Astor Theatre shows what can be accomplished through a belief in contributing to the arts and a commitment to hard work. The theatre was on the verge of closing when Chris became the general manager. After working with many volunteers in the community to bring it back to life, today, the Astor Theatre is one of the busiest venues in the province and an important part of the touring circuit of Nova Scotia. After 20 years managing the Astor, Chris decided to move on and became the Operational and Technical Manager of the Labrador West Arts and Culture Centre where he froze for 6 years while welcoming artists to the Big Land. For the past 5 years he has been in the position as Programming Manager for the Arts and Culture Centres of NL in St. John’s where he oversees programming for all 6 ACC’s across the province.

During his time at the Astor, Chris was an active volunteer as a board member of the Atlantic Presenters Association, In 2008, Chris was honoured with the NS Democracy 250 Award for contribution to cultural life in his community and the APA Professional Presenters Award in 2007. From 2011-2014, Chris sat on the Creative Nova Scotia Leadership Council, an advisory board to the Minister Of Communities, Culture, and Heritage in NS and Chaired the Program Review Committee for the Council.