Department of Theatre and Film

Degrees Offered

Student may also be interested in these minor options:

The Bachelor of Arts programs in theatre and film/video are designed to prepare the student for a wide range of career options and/or postgraduate study through a strong liberal arts curriculum. Students may choose a bachelor of arts major in either theatre or film.

The BA in Theatre includes a total of 45 hours. Theatre majors take 33 required hours as well as an additional 12 hours in the concentration of their choice, either Stage and Screen Acting or Theater Design and Technology. The BA in Film/Video includes 39 required hours and an additional 9 hours of required major electives.

FILM 1310 Introduction To Film

[3 credit hours]

Introduction to the history and interpretation of cinema as art form, with emphasis on discovering how meaning is encoded in film at the levels of shot, sequence and narrative construction. (Not recommended or required for majors.)

Term Offered: Spring, Summer, Fall

Core Arts & Humanities, OT36 Arts and Humanities

FILM 2230 Creative Approaches to Cinema

[3 credit hours]

An introductory course focused on visual storytelling through the examination and construction of the still image. Emphasis on interpreting photography, paintings and stories designed within the construct of the single image. This course uses lectures, readings and in-class exercises to produce creative narratives through photo-romans. Students must have taken or be co-enrolled in Critical Approaches to Cinema, Film 2340. 3 credit hours.

Corequisites: FILM 2340

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

FILM 2310 Film I

[3 credit hours]

An intensive production/seminar course for creative film making utilizing 16mm celluloid film. Individual and group production exercises. Students must purchase supplies.

Prerequisites: FILM 2340 with a minimum grade of C or FILM 2330 with a minimum grade of C

Term Offered: Spring

FILM 2320 Digital Cinema Production I - WAC

[3 credit hours]

An intensive production/seminar course exploring digital media as means for creative expression. Students purchase supplies. For majors and minors only, or by permission of instructor. Prerequisites: Grade of C or better in FILM 2330 or FILM 2340. May not take simultaneously with FILM 2310. Writing Intensive (WAC) course. Non-majors seek instructor consent for permit.

Prerequisites: FILM 2330 with a minimum grade of C or FILM 2340 with a minimum grade of C

Term Offered: Fall

FILM 2330 Critical Approaches to Cinema

[3 credit hours]

A critical approach to the development of cinema as an industrial, artistic and ideological practice. Emphasis on theories of film construction and interpretation and the development of analytical skills for cinema studies. Screenings included in class.

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

FILM 2350 Cinema History

[3 credit hours]

A study of the major movements and authors of Cinema History. Screenings included in class.

Term Offered: Spring, Summer, Fall

FILM 2990 Special Projects

[1-3 credit hours]

Individual study provides the student an opportunity to work independently on a problem of special interest in Film/Video under the direction of the faculty. For Freshman and Sophomore students.

FILM 3200 Directing Screen Acting

[3 credit hours]

This studio course trains students to actively view a scene, assess the effectiveness of script, acting and directing, and discuss it critically. It identifies components of story, script and character - and how to build this with the cast. Focus is placed on characteristics required to play a role, successfully cast actors through auditions, and run an effective rehearsal. Lessons focus on production etiquette, communication, and techniques necessary to film a story.

Term Offered: Fall

FILM 3330 Critical Approaches to Cinema II

[3 credit hours]

Intermediate critical analysis of film, concentrating on a specific style, genre, national cinema of the West, or filmmaker. Emphasis on theories of film construction and interpretation. Screenings included in class. Topics vary, may be repeated to 9 hours.

Prerequisites: FILM 2340 with a minimum grade of C or FILM 2330 with a minimum grade of C

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

FILM 3350 Screenwriting - WAC

[3 credit hours]

This course involves practical analysis of screenplays, emphasizing story structure and characterization. Students plan, write and refine story lines before writing actual scripts.

Prerequisites: ENGL 1130 with a minimum grade of D- or ENGL 1140 with a minimum grade of D- or ENGL 1150 with a minimum grade of D- or ENGL 2950 with a minimum grade of D- or ENGL 2960 with a minimum grade of D- or HON 1010 with a minimum grade of D- or HON 1020 with a minimum grade of D- or ENGL 1180 with a minimum grade of D-

Term Offered: Spring, Summer, Fall

FILM 3370 Documentary Film

[3 credit hours]

A study of the major movements and authors of Documentary Film. Screenings included in class.

Prerequisites: (ENGL 1130 with a minimum grade of D- or ENGL 1140 with a minimum grade of D- or ENGL 1150 with a minimum grade of D- or ENGL 2950 with a minimum grade of D- or ENGL 2960 with a minimum grade of D-) and FILM 2350 with a minimum grade of C

Term Offered: Spring, Summer, Fall

FILM 3380 Experimental Film

[3 credit hours]

A study of the major movements and authors of Experimental Film. Screenings included in class.

Prerequisites: (ENGL 1130 with a minimum grade of D- or ENGL 1140 with a minimum grade of D- or ENGL 1150 with a minimum grade of D- or ENGL 2950 with a minimum grade of D- or ENGL 2960 with a minimum grade of D-) and FILM 2350 with a minimum grade of C

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

FILM 3390 History of Video Art

[3 credit hours]

A study of the major movements of the History of Video Art and Installation. Screenings included in class.

Prerequisites: ENGL 1130 with a minimum grade of D- or ENGL 1140 with a minimum grade of D- or ENGL 1150 with a minimum grade of D- or ENGL 2950 with a minimum grade of D- or ENGL 2960 with a minimum grade of D- or FILM 2350 with a minimum grade of C

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

FILM 3430 Global Cinema

[3 credit hours]

A study of the major movements and authors of non-US cinema. Screenings included in class. Topics vary, may be repeated to 9 hours.

Prerequisites: FILM 2340 with a minimum grade of C or FILM 2330 with a minimum grade of C

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

FILM 3510 Cinematography and Color Grading

[3 credit hours]

A production/seminar course concentrating on how the language of the image is influenced by camera format fundamentals and color. In-class demonstrations and exercises, as well as outside of class workshops and individual production(s). Majors and minors only.

Prerequisites: FILM 2310 with a minimum grade of C and FILM 2320 with a minimum grade of C

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

FILM 3530 Animation and Optical Printing

[3 credit hours]

Intensive production/seminar course in the creation of animation and special effects for film and digital work. Hand-drawn, cut-out, stop-motion, pixilation and various optical effects are explored through in-class exercises and individual productions.Majors and minors only. Interested non-majors should seek instructor permission to enroll.

Prerequisites: FILM 2310 with a minimum grade of D-

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

FILM 3550 Producing and Production Management

[3 credit hours]

Inquiry into the financial, logistical, and organizational aspects of film and video production, focusing on the roles of the line producer, production manager, assistant director and their teams. No prerequisite.

Term Offered: Spring

FILM 3560 Methods for the Professional Editor

[3 credit hours]

A production/seminar course that prepares students for professional practice in digital post-production methods and concepts. In-class exercises and individual production work done outside of class are required for the course. Majors and minors only. Interested non-majors should seek instructor permission to enroll.

Prerequisites: FILM 2320 with a minimum grade of C

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

FILM 3730 Directing for Camera

[3 credit hours]

A production/seminar course focusing on directing dramatic scenes for camera with emphasis on effective director/actor communication and the creation of dramatically meaningful camera and actor blocking. Majors and minors only. Interested non-majors should seek instructor permission to enroll.

Prerequisites: FILM 2310 with a minimum grade of C and FILM 2320 with a minimum grade of C

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

FILM 3820 Documentary Field Production

[3 credit hours]

Advanced production class focusing on the unique challenges of field production. Various types of documentary work are explored through field assignments relating to social and scientific subjects. This course includes local and regional production work as well as study abroad options.

Prerequisites: FILM 2310 with a minimum grade of D- and FILM 2320 with a minimum grade of D-

Term Offered: Spring

FILM 4220 Media Studies

[3 credit hours]

Covering issues concerned with film and media history, theory, and criticism and the interrelationship of film to television, radio, print, and/or the Internet. Particular focus of the course can change. Repeatable for credit.

Prerequisites: FILM 2340 with a minimum grade of C or FILM 2330 with a minimum grade of C

Term Offered: Spring, Summer, Fall

FILM 4310 Advanced Production

[3 credit hours]

A production/seminar course focused on advanced production techniques that intersect celluloid and raw cinema capture. Emphasis on narrative, double system/sync-sound recording, lighting, and editing/coloring/scoring of on-screen drafts. Individual and group project work required inside and outside class. Students may need to purchase supplies. Interested non-majors should seek instructor permission to enroll.

Prerequisites: FILM 3510 (may be taken concurrently) with a minimum grade of C or FILM 3560 (may be taken concurrently) with a minimum grade of C

Term Offered: Fall

FILM 4320 Film/Video Workshop

[3 credit hours]

A production/seminar course for advanced independent production projects, including screenwriting. Regular critiques of work in progress. Requires project proposal and instructor permission for admission. Larger projects may be completed over multiple semesters. May be repeated up to 6 hours.

Prerequisites: FILM 3310 with a minimum grade of D- or FILM 3320 with a minimum grade of D- or FILM 3350 with a minimum grade of D- or FILM 3360 with a minimum grade of D-

Term Offered: Spring

FILM 4330 Critical Approaches to Cinema III

[3 credit hours]

Advanced critical analysis of film, concentrating on a specific style, genre, national cinema of the West, or filmmaker. Emphasis on theories of film construction and interpretation. Screenings included in class. Topics vary, may be repeated to 9 hours.

Prerequisites: FILM 2330 with a minimum grade of C

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

FILM 4940 Internship

[1-6 credit hours]

Internship with an approved program, company, or agency in Film. Video or television. (repeatable for 6 credit hours)

Term Offered: Spring, Summer, Fall

FILM 4950 Honors Thesis

[3 credit hours]

Research or a creative project on a topic in Film or Video. Required of all BA candidates seeking department honors. (Repeatable for 6 credit hours.)

Term Offered: Spring, Summer, Fall

FILM 4990 Special Projects

[1-3 credit hours]

Individual study provides the student an opportunity to work independently on a problem of special interest in Film/Video under the direction of the faculty. For Junior and senior students.

Term Offered: Spring, Summer, Fall

THR 1010 Acting for Non Majors

[3 credit hours]

Learn the fundamentals of acting through exercises, devised playmaking and scene study. Through active class participation, the student discovers an understanding of the basic artistic process of the performer and how that process may lead to self-realization and heightened awareness.

Term Offered: Spring, Summer, Fall

THR 1030 Stagecraft and Theatre Technology

[3 credit hours]

[3 hours] Introduction to theatre technology using the tools and practices utilized in set construction, properties scene painting and scene design. Lectures, readings and projects with practical laboratory experience.

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

THR 1040 Stage Lighting and Sound Technology

[3 credit hours]

Introduction to theory and practice in stage lighting and sound. Students will use lighting and sound tools and equipment in production crews on department productions.

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

THR 1050 Costume Technology

[3 credit hours]

Introduction to the theory and practice of stage costuming. Lectures, readings and projects offer practical laboratory experiences. Students will use tools and equipment of the costume shop on production crews.

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

THR 1100 Introduction To Theatre

[3 credit hours]

Introductory survey of the development of theatre and drama from the ancient world to the present day; discussion of representative plays; slides and films complement lectures. (Not recommended or required for majors.)

Term Offered: Spring, Summer, Fall

Core Arts & Humanities, OT36 Arts and Humanities

THR 2000 Theatre Production Practicum

[0 credit hours]

Students will be assigned a crew position for one of the department productions.

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

THR 2020 Theatre Performance Practicum

[1-3 credit hours]

Lab course introducing students to the departmental production program through participation as a performer.

Term Offered: Spring, Summer, Fall

THR 2050 Theatre Shop Practicum

[0 credit hours]

Lab course where students apply skills from foundational design and technology courses in support of the departmental production program. Practicum II students serve in departmental workshops throughout the semester. The course is credit/no credit.

Prerequisites: THR 1030 with a minimum grade of D- and THR 1040 with a minimum grade of D- and THR 1050 with a minimum grade of D-

THR 2100 Departmental Ensemble

[0 credit hours]

A collaborative colloquium course in support of departmental production and academic programming. This course is credit/no credit.

THR 2200 Script Analysis

[3 credit hours]

A survey of various playwriting and performance text composition structures from ancient to contemporary periods. Students will focus on the most prevalent and ground-breaking dramaturgical methods in the historical practice of dramatic composition.

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

THR 2400 Fundamentals of Design

[3 credit hours]

Fundamentals of Design is an introduction to visual communications, styles and techniques. It also includes a thorough exploration of basic aesthetic theory as it applies to all elements of visual design. Fundamentals of Design will develop skills of script analysis, as well as explore designing for the stage and screen as a means of communication, artistic expression and the organization of design information.

Prerequisites: THR 2200 with a minimum grade of D-

Term Offered: Fall

THR 2420 Stage Makeup

[3 credit hours]

[2 hours] Introduction to principles and techniques of makeup for the stage. Students explore practical executions of stage makeup problems. Topics may include special effects, old age techniques, creature design, period specific makeup and makeup design Students are required to purchase supplies.

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

THR 2600 Acting I

[3 credit hours]

An introduction to the art and craft of acting. Through scene work and improvisation, students learn to use acting terminology, identify dramatic beats, develop character objectives and play actions. Students who are not theatre majors or minors must get permission of instructor.

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

THR 2640 Voice And Movement

[3 credit hours]

Theory and practice of vocal and physical techniques for the actor. Repeatable for up to 8 hours of credit.

Prerequisites: THR 2600 with a minimum grade of D- or THR 2610 with a minimum grade of D- or THR 1010 with a minimum grade of D-

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

THR 2660 Acting for the Camera I

[3 credit hours]

Performing dramatic material for camera with an emphasis on the differences between stage and screen performing.

Prerequisites: THR 2610 with a minimum grade of D- or THR 2600 with a minimum grade of D-

THR 2990 Special Projects

[1-3 credit hours]

Individual study provides a student an opportunity to work independently on a problem of special interest in theatre under the direction of the faculty. (Seminar forms available in the department office.)

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

THR 3150 Theatre History - Ancient to Contemporary - WAC

[3 credit hours]

This course explores major developments and trends in theatrical production, theory, and playwriting from ancient times to the Present. The study of theatre history in this course is applied to the development of design and directorial approaches for plays by theatre artists. In addition, students will use performance techniques in class to explore historical production methods and theatrical theories through practice.

Prerequisites: ENGL 1110 with a minimum grade of D-

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

THR 3210 Playwriting

[3 credit hours]

Creative writing for the theatre analyzing traditional and contemporary structure and style.

Prerequisites: ENGL 2720 with a minimum grade of D- or THR 2200 with a minimum grade of D-

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

THR 3250 Theatre and Stage Management

[3 credit hours]

Theatre & Stage Management will provide students with a general overview of the administrative and management functions of an arts organization as well as an introductory look at the responsibilities and process of stage management. Through readings and videos, interactive discussion forums, research projects, and practical assignments, the student will develop an understanding of the structure and business of the performing arts and its various management positions, translating traditional business practices into the language of the arts.

Term Offered: Spring, Summer, Fall

THR 3340 Acting for the Camera II

[3 credit hours]

This course is directed toward third and fourth year acting students at University of Toledo’s Department of Theatre and Film who have completed Acting for the Camera I. It is designed to reinforce and build upon the principles explored in Acting for the Camera I.

Prerequisites: THR 3610 with a minimum grade of D- or THR 2660 with a minimum grade of D-

Term Offered: Spring

THR 3410 Stage Lighting Design

[3 credit hours]

Principles and theories of lighting design for theatrical productions are explored. Develop skills of script analysis, light study, light plot and related graphics for conceptualization and communication of design ideas.

Prerequisites: THR 1040 with a minimum grade of D- and THR 2400 with a minimum grade of D-

Term Offered: Spring

THR 3430 Advanced Stagecraft and Technical Production

[3 credit hours]

This course is designed to expand upon the foundation of scenic construction techniques formed in basic theatre practices: Stagecraft. Topics include welding/metalworking, advanced woodworking, scenic automation, theatrical rigging, and technical direction/project management/shop management.

Prerequisites: THR 1030 with a minimum grade of D-

THR 3440 Stage Scenic Design

[3 credit hours]

Theory and principles of scenic design for stage are the focus. Conceptualization and communication of design ideas are explored through renderings, models, ground plans and elevations. Students are required to purchase supplies.

Prerequisites: THR 2400 with a minimum grade of D-

Term Offered: Fall

THR 3450 Scene Painting

[3 credit hours]

Students learn the fundamental skills of the scenic artist in large scale painting: preparing and sizing the surfaces, gridding and other layout, and painting techniques and tools used by the scenic artist.

THR 3460 Advanced Costume Construction

[3 credit hours]

This course builds upon the skills developed in THR 1050 Costuming. Advanced techniques will be explored such as pattern development, construction of several garments from pattern to finishing, as well as development of additional advanced hand sewing techniques.

Prerequisites: THR 1050 with a minimum grade of D-

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

THR 3470 Stage Sound Design

[3 credit hours]

Students study the methods and techniques of sound production and design used in the theatre. Tools and techniques of audio production are used in laboratory recording and mixdown.

Prerequisites: THR 1040 with a minimum grade of D- or MUS 2270 with a minimum grade of D-

Term Offered: Spring

THR 3480 Stage Costume Design

[3 credit hours]

Principles and theories of costume design for theatrical productions are explored. Develop skills of script analysis, sketching, fabric study and rendering for conceptualization and communication of design ideas. Students are required to purchase supplies.

Prerequisites: THR 1050 with a minimum grade of D-

THR 3600 Acting II

[3 credit hours]

Students are exposed to a range of techniques explicated by primary acting theorists/practitioners, including diagnosis of individual skills, work in voice, movement, textual analysis and scene preparation.

Prerequisites: THR 2610 with a minimum grade of D- or THR 2600 with a minimum grade of D-

Term Offered: Spring

THR 3710 Directing I

[3 credit hours]

The director's approach to analyzing a script, formulating a production concept and realizing that concept on stage. Discussions and exercises progress to directing scenes or short plays in class.

Prerequisites: THR 2400 with a minimum grade of D- and THR 2610 with a minimum grade of D- and THR 3150 with a minimum grade of D- or THR 4150 with a minimum grade of D-

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

THR 3800 Production

[1-3 credit hours]

Through study and practice the student contributes significantly to department productions. This course is for students who have auditioned for roles or applied for design/tech positions in department productions.

Term Offered: Spring, Summer, Fall

THR 3990 Professional Conference-Festival Practicum

[0 credit hours]

A lab course in support of preparation and participation in pre-professional experiences, conferences and/or festivals. There is a lab fee in support of student travel and expenses.

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

THR 4150 Theatre Studies

[3 credit hours]

Application of the methods of theatre history, theory, and criticism to the exploration of a specific theatrical theme, style, historical period, or practice.

THR 4250 Administration and Management of the Arts

[3 credit hours]

Administration and Management of the Arts will provide undergraduate and graduate students with an advanced look at the managerial, structural, and operational functions of visual and performing arts organizations, translating traditional business practices into the language of the arts.

Term Offered: Spring, Summer, Fall

THR 4260 Promoting the Visual and Performing Arts

[3 credit hours]

Promoting the Visual and Performing Arts will provide undergraduate and graduate students with an advanced look at the theoretical and functional practice of publicizing and advancing visual and performing arts organizations, ranging from consumer behaviors and analysis to campaign communications and strategies.

Term Offered: Spring, Summer, Fall

THR 4270 Advanced Theatre Management

[1-3 credit hours]

Study and application of professional practices of a specific Theatre Management position, including but not limited to Box Office, House and Production Management, as they pertain to the theatrical production. Emphasis is placed on the duties, responsibilities and procedures from pre-production to post-production planning.

Prerequisites: THR 3250 with a minimum grade of D-

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

THR 4310 Acting for the Camera III

[3 credit hours]

This course is directed toward fourth year and Capstone acting students at University of Toledo’s Department of Theatre and Film who have completed Acting for the Stage I and Acting for the Camera I and II. It is designed to reinforce and build upon the principles explored in Acting for the Camera II. The course will consist of developing characters from dialogue, improvisation and writing, while creating a story with advanced filmmakers from the Film Department.

Prerequisites: THR 2660 with a minimum grade of D-

Term Offered: Spring

THR 4400 Seminar Topics In Design

[3 credit hours]

Individual and group investigations of particular topics in all phases of design and technology, i.e. scene painting, advanced design and rendering technique, new technology.

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

THR 4420 Advanced Project/Stage Management

[1-3 credit hours]

Study and application of professional practices of the Project/Stage/Company Manager as they pertain to the theatrical production. Emphasis is placed on the duties, responsibilities and procedures from pre-production to post-production planning.

Prerequisites: THR 3250 with a minimum grade of D-

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

THR 4440 Theatre Design

[3 credit hours]

Principles and theories for theatrical design are explored through real world implementation on departmental productions.

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

THR 4600 Acting III

[3 credit hours]

Advanced acting course with a focus on text analysis and the technique and craft of performance.

Prerequisites: (THR 2600 with a minimum grade of D- or THR 2610 with a minimum grade of D-) and (THR 2620 with a minimum grade of D- or THR 3600 with a minimum grade of D-)

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

THR 4940 Internship

[1-6 credit hours]

Internship with an approved program, company, or agency in theatre. Students must submit proposal for approval of instructor. (Repeatable for 6 hours credit.)

Term Offered: Spring, Summer, Fall

THR 4950 Honors Thesis

[3 credit hours]

Research or a creative project on a topic in theatre. Required of all candidates seeking department honors. (Repeatable for 6 hours credit.)

Term Offered: Spring, Fall

THR 4990 Special Projects

[1-3 credit hours]

Individual study provides a student an opportunity to work independently on a problem of special interest in theatre under the direction of the faculty.

Term Offered: Spring, Fall