Russian Ballet Principal Vladimir Shklyarov Dies at 39

The global ballet community is mourning the passing of Vladimir Shklyarov, recognized as one of its leading male dancers. Shklyarov, a principal with the esteemed Mariinsky Theatre, was hailed in one tribute as an “extraordinary artist” who inspired admirers worldwide. His death, which the St Petersburg-based company announced on Saturday, is being investigated by federal authorities, according to Russian media reports. Mariinsky representatives informed media outlets that he had fallen from the fifth floor of a St Petersburg building while on painkillers. “This is a huge loss not only for the theatre’s staff but for all of contemporary ballet,” the company stated in a Saturday announcement. The statement continued, “Our condolences to the artist’s family, loved ones, friends and all the numerous admirers of his work and talent.” Shklyarov was married to Maria Shklyarov, a fellow dancer with the company, and they had two children. Born in Leningrad, he undertook his studies at the renowned Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet, graduating in 2003. He joined the Mariinsky Theatre in the same year, achieving the rank of principal dancer in 2011. Over his more than 20 years with the company, he performed leading roles in various productions, including Giselle, Sleeping Beauty, Don Quixote, Swan Lake, and Romeo and Juliet. His performances graced prestigious venues globally, such as the Royal Opera House in London and the Metropolitan Opera in New York. He appeared as a guest artist with the American Ballet Theatre in 2014 and 2015. The company released a statement on Sunday expressing sorrow for his “tragic loss.” The company posted on Instagram, “We mourn the tragic loss of Vladimir Shklyarov, an extraordinary artist whose grace and passion inspired audiences worldwide.” It added, “Your light will continue to shine through the beauty you brought to this world.” Throughout his career, Shklyarov earned multiple honors, among them the Léonide Massine International Prize in 2008. Additionally, he was designated an Honoured Artist of Russia in 2020. The Mariinsky Theatre remarked, “He forever inscribed his name in the history of world ballet.” Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.