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The Goldberg Variations

Clayton Lee

Theater

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Performance artist Clayton Lee entangles classical music (Johann Sebastian Bach) and professional wrestling (Bill Goldberg) with an unfiltered exploration of queer desire and fantasy (his own).


In an unapologetic investigation of power dynamics and identity, Lee invites the audience to take a ringside seat for an intimate reckoning of his sexual and romantic history. With deadpan humour and mischievous wit, Lee explores his childhood obsession with the professional wrestler Bill Goldberg and its lasting impact on him.


Loosely set to Bach’s enigmatic Goldberg Variations, this unconventional performance evolves each time it’s performed. Desires are indulged and deconstructed. Fantasies are conjured and manifested. The Goldberg Variations takes audiences on a reckless, tender, and at times unhinged deep-dive into the tensions between dominance, submission, heartbreak, and vulnerability.


SUPPORT


Canada Council


Photo: Kenneth Koo

Details
Run Time: 60 mins
Ticket Price: $35
Venue: FringeArts

Dates: September 12, 2025 - September 13, 2025

September 12, 2025 8.00pm

140 N Columbus Blvd

General Admission: $35

September 13, 2025 8.00pm

140 N Columbus Blvd

General Admission: $35


About the Artist

Clayton Lee is a UK-based Canadian curator, producer, and performance artist. His performance projects have been presented in venues across Canada, the United States, the UK, and New Zealand. He was one of the Art Gallery of Ontario's Artists-in-Residence in 2023. As part of the Living Room Collective, he is representing Canada at the 2025 Venice Biennale of Architecture.


He is also the Artistic Director of Fierce Festival in Birmingham, UK.


Justin Jain, Talkback Host


Justin Jain is a Barrymore Award-winning Performer, Ceramicist, Director, Educator, and Wilma HotHouse Company member, previously appearing in Twelfth Night and KISS among many others at The Wilma. For over 15 years, Justin served as co-Director of the alt-comedy theatre company, The Berserker Residents (www.berserkerresidents.com). As a Director, Justin’s recent credits include The Good Person of Setzuan at The Wilma, She Kills Monster at Arcadia, and The Chinese Lady at InterAct, among many others. As a Dancer and Choreographer, Justin has worked with choreographer David Gordon, Headlong Dance Theatre, The University of the Arts, 1812 Productions, among others. Justin is currently pursuing an MFA in Ceramics and Performance at the prestigious School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC Low-Res 2027).


Cat Ramirez; Talkback Host


Cat Ramirez is a director and producer who loves logistical puzzles, community meals, and bisexual lighting. They have produced with the Bearded Ladies Cabaret, Asian Arts Initiative, InterAct Theatre Company, and more. Cat is the Creative Director for Philly Asian Performing Artists, the Creative Producer and a worker-owner for Obvious Agency, and a Board Member of the Stockton Rush Bartol Foundation and Theatre Philadelphia. catramirez.com

  • Clayton LeeCreator/Performer
  • Frank DonatoLighting Design
  • J.S. BachMusic
  • Killian Wells for XyrenaScent
  • Lisa Blackford Costume Fabrication
  • Franco Boni and Francesco Gagliardi Outside Eyes

Accessibility & Content Considerations

Contact the Fringe Festival Box Office for up to date accessibility information.

This event is appropriate for ages 18+

Nudity

Violent Content

Adult Language

Strobe/Flashing Lights

Audience Interaction

Fog/Smoke Effects

Access
ASL interpretation will be available at the September 13th performance. Wheelchair/Limited Mobility Seating, Assistive Listening Devices, and Sensory Kits Available. Venue social narrative is available online. Check PhillyFringe.org for additional services for specific shows.

This show includes sexually explicit content.

Covid-19 Safety policy

This event does not require masks to be worn


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