What element of lighting refers to the amount of light reflected by performers and their backgrounds?

The element of lighting that refers to the amount of light reflected by performers and their backgrounds is intensity. Intensity is a critical component of lighting design in theatre as it determines how bright or dim the light appears in a performance space. Proper control of intensity allows for the establishment of mood, focus, and visibility of performers on stage. It influences the audience's perception of the scene and can markedly alter the emotional tone of a production.

In contrast, direction pertains to the angle from which the light hits the performers and sets, affecting shadows and highlights. Distribution focuses on how the light is spread across the stage, impacting the overall visual balance and composition. Texture relates to the patterns or qualities of light that can add depth to the scenery and performers, but it does not directly measure the amount of light reflected. Therefore, intensity is the element that most accurately addresses the amount of light reflected by performers and their backgrounds.