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The ballet world is in mourning following the tragic death of Vladimir Shklyarov, a prominent male dancer known for his exceptional talent and artistry. The principal dancer of the esteemed Mariinsky Theatre passed away, with reports indicating a fall from the fifth floor of a St Petersburg building, while on pain medication. This heartbreaking news was relayed by the St Petersburg company, which noted that federal authorities are now investigating the circumstances surrounding his death.
In their statement, the Mariinsky Theatre expressed their profound sorrow, stating, "This is a huge loss not only for the theatre's staff but for all of contemporary ballet." They extended their condolences to Shklyarov's family, friends, and numerous admirers of his work, highlighting the deep impact he had on the ballet community.
Born in Leningrad, Shklyarov trained at the prestigious Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet, graduating in 2003. He joined the Mariinsky Theatre the same year and achieved the rank of principal dancer in 2011. Over his remarkable two-decade career, he led various productions including classics such as "Giselle", "Sleeping Beauty", "Don Quixote," "Swan Lake," and "Romeo and Juliet." His performances at renowned venues such as London’s Royal Opera House and New York’s Metropolitan Opera garnered him international acclaim.
In addition to his work at the Mariinsky Theatre, Shklyarov was a guest artist with the American Ballet Theatre in 2014 and 2015. The American Ballet Theatre also expressed their grief, calling Shklyarov an "extraordinary artist whose grace and passion inspired audiences worldwide." The company acknowledged the enduring legacy he leaves behind through his artistic contributions.
Shklyarov was recognized with numerous awards during his career, including the Léonide Massine International Prize in 2008, and was appointed an Honoured Artist of Russia in 2020. The Mariinsky Theatre commemorated his legacy, stating, "He forever inscribed his name in the history of world ballet," celebrating the lasting influence he had on the art form.
The ballet world is in mourning following the tragic death of Vladimir Shklyarov, a prominent male dancer known for his exceptional talent and artistry. The principal dancer of the esteemed Mariinsky Theatre passed away, with reports indicating a fall from the fifth floor of a St Petersburg building, while on pain medication. This heartbreaking news was relayed by the St Petersburg company, which noted that federal authorities are now investigating the circumstances surrounding his death.
In their statement, the Mariinsky Theatre expressed their profound sorrow, stating, "This is a huge loss not only for the theatre's staff but for all of contemporary ballet." They extended their condolences to Shklyarov's family, friends, and numerous admirers of his work, highlighting the deep impact he had on the ballet community.
Born in Leningrad, Shklyarov trained at the prestigious Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet, graduating in 2003. He joined the Mariinsky Theatre the same year and achieved the rank of principal dancer in 2011. Over his remarkable two-decade career, he led various productions including classics such as "Giselle", "Sleeping Beauty", "Don Quixote," "Swan Lake," and "Romeo and Juliet." His performances at renowned venues such as London’s Royal Opera House and New York’s Metropolitan Opera garnered him international acclaim.
In addition to his work at the Mariinsky Theatre, Shklyarov was a guest artist with the American Ballet Theatre in 2014 and 2015. The American Ballet Theatre also expressed their grief, calling Shklyarov an "extraordinary artist whose grace and passion inspired audiences worldwide." The company acknowledged the enduring legacy he leaves behind through his artistic contributions.
Shklyarov was recognized with numerous awards during his career, including the Léonide Massine International Prize in 2008, and was appointed an Honoured Artist of Russia in 2020. The Mariinsky Theatre commemorated his legacy, stating, "He forever inscribed his name in the history of world ballet," celebrating the lasting influence he had on the art form.
