The word passerelle is a French word that means " footbridge" or " gangway." [1] In the theatre, it refers to a small catwalk that extends from one side of the stage to the other, passing in front of the orchestra pit. [2] Besides increasing the total stage area, this stage design allows performers to be closer to the audience.
One of the most prominent uses of a passerelle has been in the Broadway productions of the musical Hello, Dolly!. Notably, the show's memorable title song is staged – in part – on the passerelle. [3]