What are the steps of salakot dance?

The salakot dance, also known as the tinikling dance or the bamboo dance, is a traditional Filipino folk dance that showcases intricate footwork and coordination between two or more dancers. The dance involves bamboo poles that are rhythmically clapped together, creating a "sound stage" on which the dancers perform. Here are the basic steps of the salakot dance:

1. Opening Sequence:

- Stand with one leg forward and the other leg slightly back, with the salakot (traditional Filipino hat) balanced on the head.

- Hold bamboo sticks in both hands, crossed in front of you.

- Strike the bamboo sticks together once to signal the start of the dance.

2. Basic Step:

- Hop forward on the front leg while the back leg is raised and bent at the knee.

- Simultaneously, clap the bamboo sticks together once in front and once behind the bent back leg.

- Hop forward on the back leg and repeat the bamboo clapping.

- Continue alternating legs and clapping the bamboo sticks with each hop.

3. Stepping-Over Sequence:

- While performing the basic step, take a small step forward with one leg and quickly bring the other leg over the first leg, crossing the feet with the toes pointed to the sides.

- Continue hopping forward on this crossed-leg position while clapping the bamboo sticks.

4. Criss-Cross Sequence:

- Move the bamboo sticks into a criss-cross position in front of the body.

- Perform the basic step while hopping forward, and clap the bamboo sticks in the new criss-cross position before and behind the bent leg.

5. Turning Sequences:

- Turn the body to the left or right while performing the basic step and bamboo clapping.

- Continue turning while keeping the feet close together and ensuring that the salakot stays balanced on the head.

6. Faster Tempo and Advanced Moves:

- Gradually increase the tempo of the dance and incorporate more advanced footwork, such as quick foot taps, double turns, and leaps.

- Synchronize the bamboo clapping and footwork with precision and agility.

7. Ending Sequence:

- Slow down the tempo and perform the basic step a few more times.

- Bring the bamboo sticks together in front of the body and strike them once to signal the end of the dance.

These are the fundamental steps and sequences of the salakot dance. Dancers can improve their skills by practicing the coordination between footwork, bamboo clapping, and body movements to create a captivating and fluid performance.