You'll get more answers on the perrenial forum, as rock and alpine gardens are usually full sun. But the various varieties, cultivars and species of astilbe come to mind that would fit the bill. Also any bleeding heart species, and the pink or white flowering heucheras.

How much shade? And how dry is it? Some Saxifrages like part shade, Violas are good if it isn't too dry, Arenaria for part shade. Woodland geraniums might work. Think about spring ephemerals like bulbs, crocus, snowdrops, cyclamen for a burst of colour before the trees leaf out. Then if it is a really tough spot, look to Ajuga (blue flowers but coloured foliage), Lamb's Ears for very dry conditions. If the shade is deep then you are going to struggle to get good flowering. Get to like foliage :)