What does the term "level" refer to in performance terminology?

In performance terminology, the term "level" primarily refers to an actor's physical positioning on stage, which directly relates to the concept of height in terms of both posture and spatial use. An actor's head height can influence how they are perceived by the audience, convey emotions, and interact with other characters. When actors adopt different levels—whether standing, sitting, or elevated on a platform—they can create visual interest and communicate status or power dynamics in a scene. Although stage height and other concepts also involve levels, the most precise focus on the actor's specific placement and how it relates to their head height is what the question is emphasizing.

Understanding this term helps actors and directors use the physical space of the stage effectively to enhance storytelling and character relationships. By manipulating the levels at which actors perform, the director can significantly impact the dynamics and visual composition of a scene.