How to change background color?

[Epinn]

I downloaded this template
http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/templates/TC011594401033.aspx
but couldn't change the background color. Format - background etc. would of
course wipe out the stack of books. I tried color schemes, edit color
schemes etc. but nothing happened. Is there a way to change the background
color? If yes, how?
Appreciate advice.

 

[John Wilson]

Not easily unless you use photoshop or similar by saving the background and
then editing.

As a workaround, depending on the colour you need you may be able to tint
the slides by inserting a semi transparent rectangle over the master.
--

 

[Epinn]

Not sure how to insert a semi transparent rectangle. Will ask someone to
show me. Thanks.

 

[Luc]

Epinn,
Just draw a rectangle covering the whole slide in the master. It will cover
up the whole slide, now choose Format - AutoShape - or rightclick and choose
Format AutoShape, next to color on the colors and lines tab click on the
listarrow and choose More colors, select a color, and set the transparency
at the bottom of the dialog - OK out.