The objectives of this dissertation were to study the history concerning the value of the funeral chant and dance ceremonies in Thai society, and the factors having affected sustainability of the funeral chant and dance ceremonies in the eastern region, using the guidance of interdisciplinary research. The procedures were a combination of historical fields, anthropology and music. Furthermore, it also used historical qualitative research methods. The results found that the value of performing a chanting dance in Thai society was based on the Trai Bhum Pra Ruang belief that was developed from the chanting of Phra Malai, followed by Suad Caruhat and funeral chant. At present, the factors affecting the viability of the funeral chant and dance ceremonies in the eastern region found that it needed five integral factors such as: a study of its management, public relations, communal participation and support from the private and public sectors, as well as a development of the proper dancing format for the contemporary funeral chant and dance. The content and format should be adjusted in accordance with the changes in Thai society with a new belief base on the concept of realism.
