Willa Mae Ricker
Willa Mae Ricker was a prominent American Lindy Hop and jazz dancer and a performer during the 1930s and 1940s with the Harlem-based Whitey's Lindy Hoppers. Ricker was known for her fashion sense, dependability and business acumen.
She and partner Leon James were featured in a photo essay in the August 23, 1943 issue of Life, demonstrating aerials.
During World War II, Ricker managed the Harlem Congaroos, a sub-group of Whitey's Lindy Hoppers formed from the premiere dancers. According to Norma Miller, Ricker was the first dancer to stand up to Herbert "Whitey" White, demanding fair pay.Filmography
