A principal dancer's illustrious career at one of Russia's most prestigious ballet theaters met an untimely conclusion.
According to CBS News, Vladimir Shklyarov, a 39-year-old star dancer at the Mariinsky Theatre in Saint Petersburg, died after falling from a fifth-floor balcony on Saturday while taking painkillers before his scheduled back surgery.
Russian media reports indicate that Shklyarov's death occurred just days before his planned medical procedure. The acclaimed dancer had been preparing for back surgery scheduled for Monday when the tragic incident took place.
Shklyarov began his career as a principal dancer at the Mariinsky Theatre in 2011. Over the years, he gained acclaim for his performances in classical ballets like The Nutcracker, Romeo and Juliet, Sleeping Beauty, and Manon.
His exceptional technique and emotional depth earned him numerous prestigious awards and recognition on a global scale, leading to performances at some of the most respected venues internationally.
The Mariinsky Theatre expressed sorrow over his passing, describing it as a significant loss for both their company and the ballet community worldwide.
The American Ballet Theatre, where Shklyarov performed as a guest artist in 2014 and 2015, also paid tribute to the dancer's legacy. On their Instagram platform, they wrote:
We mourn the tragic loss of Vladimir Shklyarov, an extraordinary artist whose grace and passion inspired audiences worldwide. Your light will continue to shine through the beauty you brought to this world
In the wake of Russia's military offensive against Ukraine, Shklyarov initially expressed opposition to the invasion through social media. His post criticizing Russia's military actions was subsequently removed.
Unlike some of his contemporaries, such as Olga Smirnova from the Bolshoi, who departed Russia in protest, Shklyarov remained in his homeland and continued performing under Mariinsky's pro-Kremlin leadership.
The circumstances surrounding Shklyarov's death have prompted an investigation by Russian authorities. According to the state-run RIA Novosti news agency, preliminary findings suggest the incident was accidental. The investigation coincides with preparations for Shklyarov's funeral, scheduled for Thursday at the Mariinsky Theatre.
The dancer leaves behind his wife, fellow company dancer Maria Shklyarov, and their two children. His memorial service will include both a theater ceremony and a church service, followed by a burial in central Saint Petersburg.
Vladimir Shklyarov's sudden passing at age 39 has left an indelible mark on the international ballet community. The Russian dancer's death occurred at his Saint Petersburg residence following the consumption of painkillers just before his scheduled back surgery.
The investigation into his fatal fall continues as the ballet world prepares to bid farewell to one of its most celebrated performers. His legacy lives on through his contributions to prestigious venues, including London's Royal Opera House, New York's Metropolitan Opera, and Saint Petersburg's historic Mariinsky Theatre, where his final memorial service will take place.
