Department of
Theater, Film, and Media Studies

Mission Statement

The field of theater, film, and media combines studies in history, theory, and critical analysis with practical experiences in production techniques and creativity. Its scope includes diverse representations in dynamic time and space, whether on stage, in the dance studio, or on screen. Among its shared subjects are visual culture, performance studies, and techniques for directing, designing, writing, and performing for stage and screen media. Because visual culture plays an ever-increasing role in the production, distribution, and reception of knowledge, studies in theater, film, and media are integral to an undergraduate curriculum in the liberal arts.

Students may focus their studies in theater or in film and media, as a major or as a minor; a minor in dance/movement is also available for students who wish to pursue a concentrated course of study in this area.

Both the theater studies and film and media studies majors are fundamentally collaborative and multidisciplinary; they thrive in a liberal arts context that promotes breadth and integration of learning. Film and media studies courses, for example, are taught across the College curriculum by faculty in anthropology, art and art history, English, international languages and cultures, and history.

The goals of the majors in theater, film, and media studies are as follows:

• To develop knowledge and skills in theater, film, and media scholarship and practice;
• To create works of theater, performance, and media that educate our students, enrich and draw from the diverse cultural life of our community, and sustain a regional and national reputation for excellence and innovation;
• To combine tradition and experimentation, old technologies and new, theory and practice;
• To nurture socially engaged scholars, artists, and audiences;
• To build bridges among disciplines, both within and outside our department;
• To foster a community of faculty and students that celebrates and reflects the diversity of world theater, cinema, and media;
• To provide opportunities for students and faculty to cultivate their individual talents and realize their unique visions;
• To prepare students for graduate study or careers in their chosen field and for lifelong achievement as global citizens and creative, critical thinkers

Of particular interest to this department is a continuing effort to promote cultural diversity in its courses, in its productions, and in the community. In keeping with this mission, its faculty practices affirmative action in all of its policies and operations, and invites suggestions for promoting cultural, racial, and gender inclusiveness in its various curricula and activities.