When playing, the drum is often placed on the drum stand, and the player stands beside the drum and strikes with both hands. The drum body can also be hung with a tie around the neck, the drum is placed in front of the abdomen, and the dance is performed while hitting. You can also play drums with one person and dance while the other person beats. The sound is sonorous and rough. It is mainly used for the accompaniment of Yao folk dance "Monkey Drum".

The number of dancers is usually twelve, and there is no limit to the number. The performers all disguised themselves as monkeys, beat monkey drums, small gongs, small cymbals, or held various props such as golden hoop sticks, banana fans, etc., simulating monkeys jumping, scratching, playing and other actions, dancing happily, the whole dance started. The beginning and the rapidity are also based on the rhythm of the monkey drum.
On the Danu Festival of the Yao nationality, people collectively perform "Monkey Drumming". The high-pitched drum sound and vigorous dance steps add a warm atmosphere to the festival. For several days in a row, all night long, enjoying the party.