Welcome!
I am a 3D storyteller, movement researcher, holistic health ambassador, and impassioned individual who has devoted four decades to the exploration of self-love and self-empowerment through the prism of movement. This is my story.
The Journey Begins (Grab some tea!)
From a young age, I was irresistibly drawn to the vitality of movement. Growing up during the era of Nadia Elena Comăneci’s Olympic triumphs, I was captivated by gymnastics, though I never formally trained. My childhood home pulsed with music and dance, and I would often lose myself in solitary movement, swaying to my grandmother’s melodies within the sanctuary of my room.
My athletic side soon found an outlet in track and field. As a spirited sprinter, I relished the challenge of the 200m, hurdles, and relays, reveling in the feeling of my body growing stronger and more alive with every training session. Athletics offered me a sense of purpose and focus—a welcome escape from the household dysfunction (a story for another day).
Everything changed when I was thirteen. I accompanied my older sibling, who was pursuing a Master’s degree at the Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana in Mexico City. While my sibling attended their elective class, I would watch from outside the window, mesmerized by the power and artistry of the Graham dance technique. Before long, I was invited to join the class. BAMM! Of course, I said yes.
Suddenly, I found myself among university students, learning from the celebrated soloist and master teacher Miguel Angel Añorve. This was the true beginning of my dance training. I may not have fully grasped it at the time (I was, after all, just a teenager), but deep down, I knew: I needed dance in my life—always. And that was the real beginning of me.
Pushing Forward
Driven by a deep devotion to discipline, I relentlessly pursued both personal and artistic growth, knowing this path would demand dedication, sacrifice, and true commitment to my craft. I enrolled in the Escuela Nacional de Danza Clásica y Contemporánea (National School of Classical and Contemporary Dance), part of Mexico City’s National System for Professional Teaching of Dance, under the umbrella of the National Institute of Fine Arts (INBA).
This institution, celebrated for its rigorous training and exceptional faculty, became the bedrock of my formal dance education. There, I had the privilege of learning from and working alongside international teachers and choreographers. It was also during this formative period that I auditioned for—and performed in—my first major professional event: the Anniversary of the Mexican Constitution, held in the iconic main plaza, El Zócalo, before thousands of spectators and live television cameras. Whoa! It was utterly nerve-racking, but the moment I stepped onto that stage, I was hooked—expressing with my body, communicating without uttering a single word. What a magnificent feeling.
Soon after, determined to deepen my artistic journey, I entered CEDART “Frida Kahlo” (Center for Artistic Education), also part of the National Institute of Fine Arts. Go me! This experience was more than learning a technique; it was about pushing boundaries, finding strength in vulnerability, and embracing the intricate beauty of dance in all its forms. I broadened my artistic education, delving into guitar, acting, music composition, and so much more.
Encounters with Legends
Later on, I joined Ballet Teatro del Espacio, one of the three premier contemporary dance companies in Mexico City at the time. It was there that I found myself propelled into a professional environment that demanded far more than technical skill—it demanded artistry, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to continual evolution. I rose quickly, progressing from student to apprentice, and ultimately to full company member.
This transition was made possible by the mentorship of Michel Descombey, the esteemed artistic director and choreographer, whose guidance was instrumental not only in sharpening my technique but in shaping my understanding of what it truly means to be an artist. Alongside him, co-director Gladiola Orozco brought wisdom and balance to the company’s vision, further enriching my growth.
But perhaps the most transformative part of my journey at Ballet Teatro del Espacio was the privilege of meeting and learning from icons who had shaped the very fabric of the art form. Among them was Rudolf Nureyev—a legend whose influence left an indelible mark on me. Nureyev was a beacon of passion, resilience, and unyielding determination. The fire he carried, both on and off the stage, became a model for my own artistic path. His ability to push through personal and professional challenges, all while maintaining a fierce devotion to his craft, continues to inspire and propel me forward as both a dancer and an artist.
These encounters with legends—whose names still resonate powerfully in the world of dance—were more than mere learning experiences; they were moments of profound awakening. They set the trajectory for my future and anchored my belief that art, in all its forms, is a lifelong journey of discovery, reinvention, and deep human connection.
Ballet Teatro del Espacio closed its doors in 2009.
The Good Influence
In life's tumultuous journey, moments of sorrow and immense pressure often feel like insurmountable obstacles, casting shadows over our very essence. Yet, within these profound junctures lie the seeds of transformation, guiding us toward new horizons in our physical, emotional, and professional realms.
In 1991, a knee injury thrust me into a voyage of discovery. Through physical pain and emotional turmoil, I immersed myself in research and education on body mechanics. As a young dancer facing uncertainty, my world was turned upside down. Eventually, surgery became necessary, and with it came a cascade of challenges. During my recovery, I unearthed new ways to care for my body, cultivating resilience, self-empowerment, and unwavering determination. This pivotal moment marked the genesis of the woman I am today.
With the guidance of a few close friends and mentors, I discovered the transformative power of weight training, the discipline of martial arts, and, most significantly, the practice of yoga. Yoga, in particular, changed the course of my life in ways I never expected. By weaving meditation, asana, and pranayama into my daily routine, I found that not only did my physical strength as a dancer grow, but I also became a more grounded and resilient person.
These ancient practices, especially martial arts and yoga, helped me regain focus and concentration and gave me the tools to reconnect with my body after injury and surgery. Meditation and pranayama brought a deep sense of peace, a heightened awareness of my energy, and a clearer, sharper mind, allowing me to face my fears head-on. Through this journey, I learned the power of change, personal growth, and how essential it is to embrace transformation with an open heart.
Change and Growth
Leaving Ballet Teatro del Espacio was a turning point, opening the door to a new phase of my journey. Embracing freelance performance and diving into choreography gave me the freedom to explore a wide range of artistic possibilities. From choreographing musicals and TV commercials to expanding my own training with Capoeira, Butoh Dance, West African Dance, Contact-Improvisation, Boxing (yes, really!), and various Jazz techniques—I was ready to push myself in every direction. Rooted in Ballet and Graham technique, I wanted to challenge my limits, both physically and mentally, and test my endurance and dedication. This period fueled my growth, not only as a dancer but also as a choreographer. Inspired and energized, I sought out new professional experiences while remaining committed to my training, always eager to learn and evolve.
Ad Libitum
Inspired by my close friend and colleague, Jesús Laredo, I embarked on an exhilarating new venture: the creation of our very own dance troupe. With unfiltered enthusiasm, we dove straight into the process, taking on the roles of co-artistic directors and choreographers to found AdLibitum Dance Company. We gathered a vibrant collective of dancers, actors, and musicians, forging a space where creativity knew no bounds.
This bold project led us to develop an original repertoire, nurture artistic collaborations, offer classes, and navigate the often treacherous terrain of self-funding as independent performers. We staged intimate shows in theaters and enlivened public spaces with impromptu street performances, making dance accessible and immediate. Alongside these adventures, I sought further training to sharpen my voice as a choreographer and artistic leader, studying with remarkable visionaries such as Daniel Nagrin, Kazuo Ohno, Nancy Stark Smith, and Jeremy Nelson. Their teachings profoundly influenced my approach to movement and artistic expression.
Running a small company required us to wear many hats. AdLibitum Dance Company pushed us to learn the essentials of photography, marketing, and graphic design—every member pitching in wherever needed. We even had our own darkroom to develop photos, thanks mostly to Jesús and our friend David. It was a time of creative resourcefulness, where artistic exploration thrived in the shadow of financial limitation. Counting pennies, we nevertheless made magic.
Seeking Growth
While co-leading AdLibitum Dance Company, I began working as a freelance choreographer during off-seasons, collaborating with dance troupes and corporations across Mexico. Traveling to create, perform, and actually get paid for dancing was a joy and a privilege. These experiences not only stretched my creative capacities but also drew me toward commercial and artistic modeling, giving me yet another outlet for expression.
Restless for deeper growth—and, admittedly, a fair dose of madness—I made the life-altering decision to move to the United States. I paused my performance career to immerse myself in advanced training: modern dance, yoga, and martial arts. I had the privilege of studying at the Alvin Ailey School with masters like Milton Myers and Judith Jamison, explored jazz at Luigi’s Jazz Center, and absorbed new perspectives on movement through workshops with Steve Paxton. Deepening my yoga practice under teachers such as David Life and Sri Dharma Mittra, I connected to the deeper roots of yoga philosophy.
During this period, I also nurtured my passion for languages, honing my Arabic while living in Washington, DC, and New York City. Traveling across the U.S.—from California to Alaska, Florida to Nebraska, and many places in between—expanded my cultural horizons and enriched my appreciation for the English language. Eventually, this cross-country odyssey led me to West Michigan, where I found fresh opportunities for artistic growth and community impact.
Laura Armenta Dance Company
Once I secured my own space for teaching and artistic exploration, the possibility of long, focused rehearsals became a tangible reality—marking the end of my choreographic hiatus. With newfound confidence as an artist, choreographer, entrepreneur, and woman, I felt it was the right time to revive my dance company.
This transition and lots of back and forth led to the rebranding of Ad Libitum Dance Company to Laura Armenta Dance Company.
I auditioned talented and open-minded dancers from the West Michigan community, and our first performance took place in the spring of 2000. We performed at local venues such as the Wealthy Theater, the Public Museum, and the Grandville Avenue Academy for the Arts (now known as the Cook Center). A new era had begun!
In my ever-evolving choreographic work, I revel in blending contemporary dance techniques with various world dance styles, including West African, West Asian, and South Indian traditions. I also incorporate elements of martial arts and yoga, weaving together themes that stem from my personal experiences, observations of the world, the essence of womanhood, and abstract dreams. My goal has always been to push boundaries and explore the possibilities, as well as to inspire dancers and students to unleash their own potential through movement.
All this early exploration was also the beginning of what eventually would become Organik Flow Movement Lab.
Mishigami – Love at First Plunge
Though I always considered myself a “city person,” my first encounter with the tranquil beauty of Lake Michigan was transformative. The lake became a sanctuary—a necessary retreat after a period of relentless work—and helped me reconnect with my deeper self.
Inspired by this newfound sense of peace, I embraced teaching opportunities throughout the region, joining the faculties of the School of Grand Rapids Ballet, Cook Arts Center, Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp, and Grand Valley State University, as well as guest teaching at Hope College and Calvin University. In these environments, I quickly noticed significant artistic gaps in the community. Recognizing these gaps and driven by my insatiable need for creative exploration, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery and artistic expansion. The essence of the lake awakened something within me, propelling me into a new chapter of personal and creative evolution.
Armentality Movement Arts Center
The inception of my artistic entrepreneurship in West Michigan dates back to 1998. Although I was already deeply immersed in a variety of cultural and educational organizations, I felt a profound calling to create a hub of my own. It was this inner drive that led me to launch my own classes—an opportunity to focus on formats that resonated with me while offering innovative and meaningful experiences to the community.
With seven years of dedicated yoga practice behind me, I began by offering yoga classes in a modest space in Ada Village. As time passed and I expanded to a larger venue, my vision evolved, allowing me to introduce Raqs Sharqi (Belly Dancing) and Contemporary Dance. It wasn’t just the desire to start a business that drove me—it was my yearning for creative freedom.
But let me tell you, it wasn’t easy. As a self-funded entrepreneur, performing artist with no background in business management, a solo adventurous woman with no family or support network, and an immigrant, there were moments when I was absolutely terrified. The process of learning every aspect of the business side while navigating language barriers and West Michigan culture was overwhelming at times. Uff! However, despite the challenges, we are here today.
What began as a personal quest for creative expression, along with a series of experiments in rented spaces to test my business instincts, has blossomed into the thriving establishment that is the Armentality Movement Arts Center. WooHoo!
Opportunities and Possibilities
Around this time, motivated by the idea of having a “backup” plan, I decided to deepen my education. I expanded my focus to include Yoga, Ayurvedic practices, and Thai Yoga Therapy certifications. I had the privilege of studying under the guidance of renowned teachers such as Ganga White, founder of the White Lotus Foundation; Rodney Yee; Jimmy Barkan; Doug and David Swenson, James Ottis; Dr. Anthony James from the Thai Yoga Center; and Kam Thye Chow, founder of Lotus Palm School, among others. I even had the opportunity to train with Mr. Bikram Choudhury himself. Oh, do I have stories.
During this period, I also embraced an incredible opportunity to collaborate with Leslie and Ken Ottavi, a dynamic husband-and-wife IT team. Together, we created content and helped model a pioneering instructional Yoga digital series, well before the rise of social media trends. This project not only allowed me to travel extensively but also gave me the chance to promote the product and build international connections. It was a transformative experience that I am truly grateful for.
The pursuit of further education, coupled with the creation of the yoga series, taught me invaluable lessons. It solidified my confidence as a wellness expert, providing me with tools to become a better dancer, choreographer, and teacher, giving me a deeper understanding of the vital connection between body and mind. It also fueled my passion for sharing the knowledge I’ve gained from both ancient disciplines and modern movement practices with the world.
Evolution of Self
In 2004, I had the privilege of choreographing and performing in a Raqs Sharqui (Belly Dance) production for the grand opening of Mezze Cafe & Cabaret, an upscale venue in Downtown Grand Rapids. This distinctive and groundbreaking event was an undeniable success, and it led to an unexpected—but oh, so fabulous four-year residency at this vibrant establishment. Initially, I performed solo once a week, but as time went on, the production grew. We added more performances and special workshops, marking my first major production—a milestone that I proudly added to my resume. Yay!
I also took on the role of producer and co-designer, overseeing the costumes and props for these shows. Yes! I am also a seamstress and knitter.
Meanwhile, Laura Armenta Dance Company went on a temporary hiatus (again!) so that I could focus my energy on this expansive artistic project. During this time, I established a new dance ensemble, At-Neemrah Dance Company.
I held auditions to find dancers with specific skills and vision, and the company’s focus was on World Dance, with an artistic emphasis on West Asian, South Indian, and Afro-Caribbean styles. The residency was a resounding success, and soon, we found ourselves booked at other venues. BAMM!
Some notable highlights of this journey include a special Raqs Sharqui performance for Jordanian Royalty at Calvin University’s Petra: Lost City of Stone exhibition in 2005. The following year, in 2006, we embarked on a successful regional tour. Our repertoire continued to grow, enriched by training sessions from esteemed world dance masters such as Karim Nagi, Amel Tafsout, Sujatha Chandramohan, and others.
Challenges and Wisdom
A dancer’s body, much like any athlete’s, is constantly tested through exhaustion, bruises, minor injuries, blisters, and even surgeries. For me, overextending—pushing myself too hard—proved to be a costly mistake. In 2007, I found myself facing yet another knee surgery. This time, it was more severe. As time went on, the challenges shifted. Running businesses, honoring contracts, and meeting deadlines added new layers of pressure. On top of physically recovering, I also had to confront something deeper: Depression. - It began with the painful realization that I was, indeed, struggling with functional depression—and doing so largely on my own.
That said, I’m incredibly grateful for the kind, compassionate people who stepped in during that difficult period and helped pull me through.
Emerging from that dark cycle, little by little, I found a renewed sense of wisdom, strength, and focus. I shared this chapter of my life during my presentation at FailureLab, which you can watch here.
Overcoming adversity led me to develop personal resilience and professional maturity. I gained a new sense of self-assurance, which continues to drive me to push past conventional limits in my industry and realize my vision. It has taught me that commitment, respect for diverse creativity, and authenticity are key to paving the way for extraordinary success.
Moving Forward
After the At-Neemrah Dance Company’s residency at Mezze Cafe & Cabaret and the regional tour concluded, I took a much-needed break from performing. I used this time to explore new choreographic concepts, fully recover from the inside out, and embrace the journey of motherhood. The arrival of new layers, narratives, and responsibilities brought profound shifts to my life, reshaping me in ways I hadn’t expected.
A couple of years later, after stepping away from the stage, I was ready to return—this time with a focus on family-oriented performances. I created and presented productions such as the Young Explorers workshops and Tiki Tiki Tak, which were performed at local venues like the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum, Camp Sparkle at Gilda’s Club, and the Grand Rapids Public Museum.
During this time, my daily schedule became a juggling act. I balanced my duties as a faculty member at GVSU, managed and taught at my studio, and immersed myself in training for Thai-Yoga Therapy, Ayurveda, Feldenkrais, Gyrotonic, and a bit more of Martial Arts.
Embracing the multitasking challenges of entrepreneurship, this phase pushed me to reconsider the structure of my studio. It was, in many ways, organized chaos—but it was all part of the beautiful evolution of my artistic and entrepreneurial journey.
Always a Learner
Alongside my roles as a choreographer, performer, and artistic director, teaching has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of my journey. I began teaching at the age of 21 at the Academia de Artes Silvia Derbez in Mexico City, and since then, I’ve had the privilege of sharing my passion for dance and holistic arts with countless individuals from all walks of life.
In addition to leading programs at Armentality Movement Arts Center in West Michigan, I’ve had the opportunity to contribute as faculty at various institutions and create somatic movement, fitness, and wellness programs for organizations like Amway, Calvin University, Children’s Advocacy Center of Kent County, Hope College, and Circle Theater. Teaching has allowed me to grow alongside my students, reinforcing the idea that the best way to learn is to teach.
“I Am Speaking”
Growing up as a shy child and a deeply insecure teenager, shaped by a colorfully dysfunctional upbringing, I faced many challenges. Despite this, I am profoundly grateful for the spark of self-confidence and self-love that has always resided within me. My maternal grandmother’s unwavering love planted the seed of the belief that “I matter, I can be loved.”
Dance became my source of hope, offering me not only discipline, structure, and direction but also the courage to tap into my inner power. As my connection to my voice grew, the journey became winding, filled with growth, challenges, and profound self-discovery. I have fully embraced my role as a communicator. While dance and writing have been my primary form of expression for decades, I’ve come to cherish the opportunities to share my personal story as a speaker. Since 2015, I’ve had the honor of being a speaker at various events and conferences, an experience that holds a special place in my heart.
A Breath in Time
This is not the end of my story—just a breath in time. As a dedicated GenX and groovy Aquarian in my mid-50s, I’m filled with projects, dreams, and personal and professional goals that I am determined to bring to life.
Along the way, my health, well-being, and emotional safety have been tested in many ways. I’ve experienced the loss of many dear ones, which has made me deeply value my time. I don’t like to waste it, and I am intentional about who I share it with. Time matters to me, as does my peace and overall health—foundations that support my devotion to self-love.
The physical and emotional stress I’ve faced has come in many forms: breast cancer, torn ligaments, joint fractures, uterine fibroids, clinical depression, broken toes, and countless blisters, bruises, and scratches. These challenges are part of my journey, and I embrace them. They have only made me stronger, each obstacle shaping the chapters of my story, which I share through my work and presentations. Through it all, I’ve remained committed to self-love, grounding myself in yoga and mindfulness. I celebrate the dance of life and move forward with resilience and joy.
Current Events
With love and gentle ease, I continue to create and perform-drawing inspiration from trailblazers like Martha Graham, Emilyn Claid, and Eileen Kramer, as well as my own teachers and mentors: Mirta Blostein, Daniel Nagrin, and Miguel Anorve. Each of them chose to create and innovate far beyond the limits of chronological age.
Dance is my essence; I move because it is essential to my existence.
In September 2024, I founded Armentality Group, and I’m excited to embark on this new adventure as CEO. And there is so much more, but I will share as projects unfold. Stay tuned for what’s next!
LOVE and RESPECT START FROM WITHIN
CANCUN * DETROIT * GRAND RAPIDS * GUANAJUATO * HAVANA * HUATULCO * IQUITOS * LILLE * MANZANILLO * MEXICO CITY * MERIDA * MIAMI * MONTREAL * NEW YORK CITY * OAXACA * OTTAWA * SALTILLO * SAN JUAN * SAN LUIS POTOSI * SANTA BARBARA * SANTA MONICA * TORONTO
