The ballet world is in deep sorrow following the unexpected death of acclaimed dancer Vladimir Shklyarov, who was a prominent figure at the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg. Announced on Saturday, his passing is currently under investigation by federal authorities amidst media reports suggesting he fell from a fifth-floor building while under the influence of pain medication.
The Mariinsky Theatre, expressing its grief, referred to Shklyarov as an "extraordinary artist" and acknowledged the significant impact he had on contemporary ballet, offering condolences to his family, friends, and fans. Shklyarov is survived by his wife Maria, also a dancer with the company, and their two young children.
Born in Leningrad, Shklyarov trained at the prestigious Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet, graduating in 2003 and shortly thereafter joining the Mariinsky Theatre, where he earned the title of principal dancer in 2011. Over his expansive career spanning two decades, he took on leading roles in major productions, including classics such as Giselle, Swan Lake, and Romeo and Juliet, gracing esteemed stages around the world, including London’s Royal Opera House and New York’s Metropolitan Opera.
His remarkable career also included memorable guest performances with the American Ballet Theatre in 2014 and 2015. Following news of his passing, the American Ballet Theatre honored him by stating, "We mourn the tragic loss of Vladimir Shklyarov, an extraordinary artist whose grace and passion inspired audiences."
Shklyarov's achievements in ballet were numerous; he received the Léonide Massine International Prize in 2008 and was named an Honoured Artist of Russia in 2020. The Mariinsky Theatre concluded their tribute noting, "He forever inscribed his name in the history of world ballet," ensuring his legacy as a brilliant artist will endure within the ballet community and beyond.
