A Secondary-Data Study of Ethnic Groups in Aranyaprathet for the Creative Development of Thai Dance

Abstract

This academic article aims to examine secondary data on the ethnicity and cultural heritage of five ethnic groups in Sa Kaeo Province. The study analyzes cultural and ethnographic information concerning the Yo, Lao, Khmer, Chinese, and Vietnamese communities residing in the province. Secondary data were collected from academic literature, research studies, and other relevant empirical sources. The findings reveal significant insights into the historical backgrounds, cultural traditions, and ways of life of these ethnic groups, including customary practices, music that expresses ethnic identity, traditional attire, and handicrafts shaped by each group’s cultural heritage. These findings serve as a foundation for formulating conceptual approaches to the creation of innovative Thai dance works, particularly in the development of dance compositions, costume design, and musical soundscapes. The study proposes a creative framework that situates these artistic components within contemporary contexts while remaining deeply connected to the cultural roots and lived experiences of local ethnic communities. Ultimately, the research aims to contribute to the creation of meaningful and culturally distinctive elements in Thai performing arts that reflect the unique identities of each ethnic group.