International Lover is the tale of an artist in pursuit of a dream. In this boldly vulnerable theatrical experience, Troy Lingelbach shares their journey of self-acceptance. Through trapeze work, dance, and performance art, the artist exposes the conflict of their mind, body, and spirit, reckoning with gender, relationships, identity, addiction, and injury. Learning to embrace their fullest self, they become the International Lover. A staple of the NYC nightlife and cabaret world, this solo show seeks to unveil the parts of Troy that audiences have never experienced. There is a stark evaluation of a performer’s life pulsing through this piece, heightened by the use of select props. This show has no spoken word; it relies on the soundtrack to voice the artist’s inner dialogue. The score pulls from Woodstock-era rock and roll, jazz, funk, and Prince deep cuts –including the finale to Prince’s “International Lover” (1999). At its core this is show about healing, and International Lover was created to inspire.
Content Warning: for mature audiences only. Sexual content and themes/mention of body dysmorphia, gender dysmorphia, and suicide.
SUNDAY, MAY 25, 6 PM
Christ Church Neighborhood House
20 N. American St,
Philadelphia, PA 19106
TICKETS
GA $30
Limited tickets for this show are “Sliding Scale”, or Pay What You Can, which means you are able to pick your price. If you are able to pay the suggested price, that will help to subsidize somebody else’s ticket in need, but seating is General Admission and is not determined by the amount you choose to pay.
Recommended for ages 18+
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Troy Lingelbach is a circus and performance artist based in Brooklyn, NY. Troy is a staple of the NYC cabaret and nightlife scene, regularly performing at House of Yes, Company XIV, The Box, and the Stranger, and their work has taken them around the world to teach and perform in Lucerne (Obrasso Concerts), London (The Box, SoHo), Berlin, Puerto Escondido, and across the US. Their art is an accumulation of their eclectic background studying theatre, dance, gymnastics, and philosophy, and they have sought out coaching around the world to improve their craft and pedagogy. In the summer of 2024, Troy premiered their first solo show, International Lover, at the Hupstate Circus Festival. This vulnerable piece is a bold assessment of their life’s work in circus and nightlife. Visit www.troylingelbach.com
See More Circus!
The Philadelphia Contemporary Circus Festival (PCCF) runs May 23 - June 1, 2025, featuring artists from Philly's vibrant contemporary circus community as well as ground-breaking artists from across the nation and beyond. These contemporary circus artists defy limitations, reimagine what’s possible, and create breathtaking moments of connection for audiences of all ages. Don't miss thrilling shows that blend acrobatics, dance, theater, and storytelling to push the boundaries of performance.
SUPPORT
The Philadelphia Contemporary Circus Festival is supported in part by the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts.
