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Theatrical Lionel gets work with lead perhaps (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

niello

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'theatrical' is the definition.
Both the answer and definition are singular nouns.
Perhaps there's a link between them I don't understand?

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

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(Other definitions for niello that I've seen before include "Method of engraving" , "Style of ornamenting metal, lo line (anag.)" , "Black filling for engravings on metal; lo line (anag.)" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times and The Sunday Times.
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