Vladimir Shklyarov, principal dancer with the Mariinsky Theatre, passed away at the age of 39, prompting an outpouring of grief and admiration from around the world.
Vladimir Shklyarov, Renowned Ballet Artist, Dies at 39 Amid Investigation
Vladimir Shklyarov, Renowned Ballet Artist, Dies at 39 Amid Investigation
The ballet community pays tribute to an exceptional talent whose contributions left an indelible mark on the art form.
Shklyarov's death was reported by the St. Petersburg-based ballet company on Saturday, sparking an investigation by federal authorities following claims that he fell from the fifth floor of a building while reportedly under the influence of painkillers. The Mariinsky Theatre expressed their sorrow, stating, "This is a huge loss not only for the theatre's staff but for all of contemporary ballet," extending condolences to his family and admirers.
The accomplished dancer, who leaves behind his wife Maria and two children, was born in Leningrad and graduated in 2003 from the Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet, after which he joined the Mariinsky Theatre. He became a principal in 2011, and throughout his 20-year career, he captivated audiences with lead roles in cherished productions like "Giselle," "Sleeping Beauty," "Don Quixote," "Swan Lake," and "Romeo and Juliet."
Shklyarov's talent brought him to renowned stages globally, including the Royal Opera House in London and the Metropolitan Opera in New York. He also made notable appearances as a guest artist with the American Ballet Theatre in 2014 and 2015, which conveyed their sorrow on social media, recognizing Shklyarov's timeless influence on audiences worldwide.
Celebrated for his artistry, Shklyarov received numerous accolades, including the Léonide Massine International Prize in 2008 and the title of Honoured Artist of Russia in 2020. The Mariinsky Theatre remarked, "He forever inscribed his name in the history of world ballet," a testament to his exceptional contributions to the art form that will resonate for years to come.
The accomplished dancer, who leaves behind his wife Maria and two children, was born in Leningrad and graduated in 2003 from the Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet, after which he joined the Mariinsky Theatre. He became a principal in 2011, and throughout his 20-year career, he captivated audiences with lead roles in cherished productions like "Giselle," "Sleeping Beauty," "Don Quixote," "Swan Lake," and "Romeo and Juliet."
Shklyarov's talent brought him to renowned stages globally, including the Royal Opera House in London and the Metropolitan Opera in New York. He also made notable appearances as a guest artist with the American Ballet Theatre in 2014 and 2015, which conveyed their sorrow on social media, recognizing Shklyarov's timeless influence on audiences worldwide.
Celebrated for his artistry, Shklyarov received numerous accolades, including the Léonide Massine International Prize in 2008 and the title of Honoured Artist of Russia in 2020. The Mariinsky Theatre remarked, "He forever inscribed his name in the history of world ballet," a testament to his exceptional contributions to the art form that will resonate for years to come.
