actor
伶 centers on a performer who acts or entertains, specifically an actor. The meaning is narrow and concrete.
伶 combines 亻 (person) with 令, which likely contributes the sound. The character originally referred to a performer or actor.
A person 亻 beside 令: imagine an actor receiving a command (令) to perform on stage.
For レイ, picture an actor laying down a performance: lay -> レイ, and the actor takes the stage.