1. Starting Position: The dancers stand parallel to each other, facing the same direction, with the bamboo poles held parallel to the ground and slightly apart in front of them.
2. Single-Leg Shuffle: One dancer begins the dance by shuffling forward or backward using one leg while the other dancer remains still.
3. Cross-Step: With the bamboo poles on the ground, one dancer steps over or between the poles in a crossing motion while the other dancer simultaneously steps in the opposite direction.
4. Alternate Shuffle and Cross-Step: The dancers continue to alternate between the single-leg shuffle and cross-step movements while maintaining a steady rhythm and coordination.
5. Bamboo Crossing: As the dance progresses, the bamboo poles are moved closer to each other, requiring the dancers to perform more intricate footwork to avoid hitting the poles with their feet.
6. Quick Movements: The dance often involves quick and sudden changes in footwork and body positions, including jumps, leaps, and turning motions.
7. Synchronized Steps: Both dancers must perfectly synchronize their steps, pole movements, and body coordination to create a cohesive performance.
8. Faster Tempo: As the dance advances, the tempo usually increases, demanding greater agility and coordination from the performers.
9. Ending Position: The dance ends with the dancers coming to a halt while holding the bamboo poles in a final pose, often accompanied by a musical climax.
Throughout the performance, the dancers show flexibility, balance, and grace while navigating the rhythmic tapping of the bamboo poles. The tinikling dance is notable for its lively rhythm, energetic movements, and the visual spectacle of the bamboo poles rapidly clicking and clacking as they are struck together in various patterns and sequences.