The ballet community is grieving the loss of Vladimir Shklyarov, a renowned male dancer known for his exceptional talent. Shklyarov, a principal dancer with the esteemed Mariinsky Theatre, was hailed as an “extraordinary artist” who captivated audiences globally.
His death, confirmed by the Mariinsky Theatre on Saturday, is currently under investigation by federal authorities. Reports indicate that Shklyarov tragically fell from the fifth floor of a St Petersburg building while under medication.
“This is a significant loss not only for the theatre’s staff but for the entire world of contemporary ballet,” the company expressed in a statement. They extended their condolences to Shklyarov’s family, friends, and countless fans who admired his work and talent.
Shklyarov was married to fellow dancer Maria Shklyarov, and they shared two children. Born in Leningrad, he graduated from the prestigious Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet in 2003, the same year he joined the Mariinsky Theatre. He became a principal dancer in 2011.
Throughout his two-decade career with the company, Shklyarov took on leading roles in major productions such as Giselle, Sleeping Beauty, Don Quixote, Swan Lake, and Romeo and Juliet. His performances graced renowned stages around the world, including the Royal Opera House in London and the Metropolitan Opera in New York.
In 2014 and 2015, he also guest-performed with a major American ballet company, which issued a heartfelt statement following his passing, honoring his “tragic loss.” The ballet community mourned, stating, “We mourn the loss of Vladimir Shklyarov, an exceptional artist whose grace and passion inspired audiences worldwide.”
Shklyarov received numerous accolades throughout his career, including the Léonide Massine International Prize in 2008 and the title of Honoured Artist of Russia in 2020. The Mariinsky Theatre remarked that he has left an indelible mark on the history of world ballet.
