Laura Armenta and Armentality Group Present

WOMANHOOD — Rituals, Mythology, and Other Stages is not an event.
It is a force.

Born from the spirit of an annual dance performance, captivating storytelling, and profound artistry, WOMANHOOD has evolved into something far more powerful—a global platform where art, truth, and resilience collide. A powerful, rich and empowering exploration of strength, vulnerability, fluidity, and authenticity.

This is where poetry roars, music bleeds emotion, dance strikes the soul, and stories shatter silence.
It is a home for panels, podcasts, conferences, merchandise, and above all, unapologetic self-expression.

WOMANHOOD — Rituals, Mythology, and Other Stages honors the sacred rituals, mythologies, and countless stages that define the female experience. We are not confined by labels. We are not bound by borders. We move beyond tradition while honoring its wisdom.

This movement was created to be impactful, indelible, and global—a living monument where women from every walk of life, every history, and every horizon rise and reclaim their voices through the arts.

We are not asking for space.
We are creating it.
We are not whispering.
We are declaring.

WOMANHOOD is a revolution in motion.
A legacy being written in real time.
A myth reborn in every stage of life.

Join us—and leave your mark.

“I aim for the audience to embark on a profound exploration of the distinct artistic methodologies of choreographers and performers across different eras. Delve into a space where the body articulates intricate narratives, emotions manifest through graceful motions, and the multifaceted facets of femininity are celebrated with exuberance.”
— Laura Armenta

Thank You for Fueling the Vision
Every step of WOMANHOOD — Rituals, Mythology, and Other Stages is possible because of souls like you.
Your trust, your support, and your belief ignite the fire that fuels this vision—turning dreams into action, and action into impact.

As WOMANHOOD continues to bloom into performances, poetry, music, podcasts, conferences, and global conversations, your contribution becomes part of something far greater:
a revolution of myth, ritual, and rising voices.

This project is not just growing—it is booming.
And your help is crucial to sustain the momentum, expand the reach, and honor the stories that need to be told.

If you feel called, you can directly support WOMANHOOD by buying a coffee, a symbolic gesture that carries immense meaning.
Every cup strengthens the foundation, energizes the creative process, and brings us closer to global connection and change.

Thank you for believing.
Thank you for supporting.
Thank you for standing with us.

Kelly Chaffee

A native of Grand Rapids, Kelly Chaffee has been writing since early adolescence, using her pen as a means to navigate the complex emotional landscapes of mental illness and personal struggle. Much of her early work was filled with raw, reflective angst, capturing the intensity of her inner world. After a hiatus from writing, Kelly has rediscovered her voice as a mature, fierce, and secular poet, channeling her experiences into powerful pieces that tackle themes such as motherhood, religious trauma, and eating disorders.
Her poetry has been published, marking a return to her craft with renewed purpose. Kelly’s work reflects not only her journey but also her desire to speak to universal struggles, offering insight and catharsis for those who may feel similarly silenced or misunderstood.
When not writing, Kelly finds joy in the simple yet profound moments of life—feeling the wind in her hair during long drives, blasting loud music, and immersing herself in the waves of Lake Michigan. Above all, she treasures spending time with her closest family around bonfires, creating lasting memories and finding comfort in their shared moments of connection.

Hailey Paige Cone

Hailey grew up with a strong sense of independence and determination. Legally blind from infancy, she was encouraged to embrace a wide range of activities, including downhill skiing, rowing, performance choirs, and camping.
Currently a Music Major at GRCC, Hailey specializes in Voice and has a deep passion for musicology, with a focus on women and minority groups. An avid scholar and tutor, she performs in ensembles and has contributed content to a popular Classical music channel on YouTube.
During the summer, Hailey works at camps for low-vision youth and other children, sharing her love of music and the outdoors. In her free time, she enjoys painting, kayaking, chess, and writing, often drawing inspiration from her love of nature.

Archana Madhukar Sardar
Mrs. Archana Madhukar Sardar discovered her passion for dance at a very young age. Her journey began with formal training in the ancient and revered Indian classical dance form of Bharatanatyam. Over the years, she expanded her love for movement into Bollywood dancing, blending tradition with the vibrant energy of contemporary styles.
Driven by an insatiable curiosity for dance, Archana has explored and studied a variety of styles, including Kathak, another classical Indian dance, along with folk dances like Bhangra and Raas, and even Tap dance. These explorations have given her a diverse foundation that she creatively weaves into her choreography, infusing elements from each style into her Bharatanatyam and Bollywood routines. This blend of influences gives her work a unique depth, combining classical precision with modern flair.
Archana’s joy in dancing extends beyond performance; she loves sharing her knowledge and passion with her community. Whether through teaching or performing, she believes in the transformative power of dance and music, which she sees as essential tools for healing and enriching life. In addition to her dance career, Archana is a certified yoga teacher, and she enjoys blending the mindfulness and discipline of yoga into her dance practice, enhancing both her personal journey and that of her students.
A devoted mother and loving wife, Archana lives in central Michigan, where she continues to spread the joy of dance, enriching the lives of those around her through her art and dedication.

Kaylee Koslowske
A versatile artist, wellness expert, and leader whose journey spans across movement, dance, and holistic health. Her dance passion ignited in 2016 when she joined Laura Armenta’s contemporary dance class at Armentality Movement Arts Center. By 2018, she became part of the Armentality Advanced Training Lab and, in 2019, a full member of the Laura Armenta Dance Company. Kaylee’s dance repertoire is diverse, including styles like Bachata, Belly Dancing, Bollywood, Cumbia, Salsa, and West African dance.

Kaylee’s academic background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Chinese Studies from DePaul University, enriching her multidisciplinary approach. She is also a certified yoga teacher and specializes in functional fitness. Her expertise is vital to her role as a Board Member, Assistant Manager, and Functional Fitness Instructor at Armentality Movement Arts Center. Additionally, she co-facilitates Thai Yoga Therapy and holds a Doctorate in Natural Medicine.
A skilled music composer and experienced tax advisor, Kaylee blends creativity with practicality, making her a key figure in the Armentality Group and an inspiring leader in the wellness and creative industries.

Shayna “Akanke” Marie
Shayna “Akanke” Marie is a writer, poet, and community organizer based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, known for her powerful advocacy for narrative justice and community unity. She believes that those who hold the power to define also shape the future, and that diverse narratives are essential for advancing justice, equity, and inclusion. Through her poetry, Shayna bridges racial and generational divides, while passionately empowering youth to share their stories and enhance their opportunities.

As the Project Manager & Director of Community Relationships at Grand Rapids Media Initiative & Film Incubator, Shayna leads narrative justice initiatives, including a documentary on the Black Freedom Struggle in Grand Rapids and various community multimedia projects. She is committed to exploring and understanding the issues that have shaped our past to create a more inclusive future. Her work includes projects such as “The Oral History of South High” and “West Michigan (Not So) Nice,” which highlight historical discrimination and uplift marginalized voices. In 2022, Shayna was honored with the “Young Black & Gifted Award” by Grand Rapids Area Black Businesses.

Linda Triant
A true Michigander with a rich Greek cultural background, whose passion for dance has been a constant thread throughout her life. Devoted to dance since childhood, Linda has spent nearly six decades honing her skills in ballet, tap, and jazz. A proud mother of four and grandmother to seven wonderful grandchildren, she has balanced her family life with a deep love for singing and her active involvement in her church community. After several years away from the dance world, Linda is making an exciting return, stepping into contemporary dance for the very first time as she approaches her 80th birthday. Her journey is a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and the enduring spirit of self-expression, and she is thrilled to be embarking on this new chapter in her life.

Laura Armenta
Choreographer, Performer, 3D Storyteller, Producer, Wellness Expert, Keynote Speaker. Founder and CEO of Armentality Group, Founder and Artistic Director of Laura Armenta Dance Company.
Learn more.

Listen to our chat with Shelley Irwin