Question
I have clay like soil, shade and would like to know what perennials would grow under these conditions.  Also I live in North Central Wisconsin so the winters are harsh.  Sandy  

Answer
 I would suggest adding some things to your soil for best results,
 Add sand (1 bg per 4X4 area), gypsum (1 bg per 4X4 area), topsoil (1 bg per 4X4 area), Millorganite-an organic fertilizer (1/2 bg per 4X4 area), then after planting put cypress or cedar mulch around the area and up under the plants to save the moisture.
 Hostas (there are 600 varieties-any will do), lillies of the valley, coral bells, mint (lots of varieties) and spiderwort do well in shade for your zone.
 I really believe that good growth comes from good soil.  And I would rototil all those ingredietns into your "clay".

Good Luck
Sijka