WILLI NINJA

Voguing icon Willi Ninja (1961-2006) struts onto the dance floor in Ellison and Ali’s fierce biographic ode.

In Queens, little Willi Leake drew inspiration for his dancing from frenetic karate movies, glossy fashion magazines, and books on ancient Egypt. Encouraged by his supportive mother, who took him on frequent trips to the world-famous Apollo Theater, Willi dreamed and grew into the dancer he was meant to be. His dedication soon propelled him into the world of voguing, where a gay Black dancer could find a community of like-minded queer and trans artists. More of a triumphant arc than a comprehensive biography, Ellison’s portrait of an exuberant legend flutters with breathless enthusiasm as Willi moves from young dreamer to confident dynamo to fierce trailblazer, the narrative punctuated by the infectious cheer of “Work, Willi, work!” Communal strength becomes the final thread as Willi’s story culminates in his first ball, which showcases other Black and Latine queer and trans icons of the scene before Willi Ninja steps into the spotlight. Along the same kaleidoscopic lines, Ali’s rainbow-colored artwork accentuates Willi’s distinct contributions to vogue and dance in a series of fabulous poses and moves that positively leap off the page. An illuminating addendum following Willi’s triumph at the ball provides further biographical details, historical context on queer and trans culture during his lifetime, and a call to “dance like only you can.”

Exquisitely deep in vogue.