1. Basic Steps:
- The dance starts with the couple facing each other, about an arm's length apart, with their hands raised as if forming a bird's wings.
- They shuffle their feet to the side and then return to their original position, replicating the walking motion of pigeons.
- This is followed by a small bounce or hop forward and backward, resembling a pigeon's jump.
2. Wing Fluttering:
- The dancers move their arms, flapping their hands to imitate the wings of pigeons.
- The movements are gentle, precise, and flow continuously throughout the dance.
3. Courtship Ritual:
- The male dancer circles the female dancer, showcasing his admiration.
- The female dancer responds gracefully, turning and fluttering her wings in acknowledgement.
4. Beak-to-Beak:
- The dancers face each other and bring their hands together, touching their index and middle fingers to create a beak-like form.
- This resembles the affectionate gesture of pigeons nuzzling each other.
5. Follow the Leader:
- The male dancer leads, with the female dancer following behind, mirroring his movements and gestures.
6. Wing Extension:
- The dancers extend their arms wide open, representing the wings of pigeons stretched out in flight.
7. Final Pose:
- The dance ends with the couple facing each other, arms outstretched, and their faces mirroring a joyful expression of love and courtship.
Throughout the dance, the steps and movements are fluid, graceful, and reminiscent of the delicate nature of pigeons. The music, characterized by a lively tempo, is instrumental and features bamboo instruments, including the bamboo flute (tulali), jaw harp (kubing), and nose flute (bungkaka).
The Kalapati Dance is not only an entertaining folk performance but also holds cultural significance, symbolizing the courtship and nurturing nature of love and relationships.