Vladimir Shklyarov, a prominent figure in the ballet world and principal dancer with the Mariinsky Theater, has died unexpectedly at the age of 39. The theater, although announcing his passing, did not disclose specific details surrounding the incident, which remains under investigation.
Vladimir Shklyarov: Renowned Russian Ballet Dancer Passes Away at 39
Vladimir Shklyarov: Renowned Russian Ballet Dancer Passes Away at 39
The Mariinsky Theater confirms the untimely death of a principal dancer, prompting investigations and reflections on his career.
In the aftermath of his passing, Russia’s Investigative Committee reported that a preliminary cause of death was designated as an accident, as cited by the state-run agency RIA Novosti. Shklyarov's death is a significant blow not only to the ballet community in Russia but also to admirers worldwide, given his extensive career that spanned prestigious venues globally, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York and the Royal Opera House in London.
A St. Petersburg native, Shklyarov trained at the distinguished Vaganova Ballet Academy and joined Mariinsky immediately following his graduation in 2003. His repertoire included acclaimed works such as “Swan Lake,” “Giselle,” and “Don Quixote.” Shklyarov’s artistry earned him numerous accolades, most notably the Léonide Massine International Prize in 2008, and he was honored as an artist of Russia in 2020, an acknowledgment he cherished deeply.
Details regarding his family are scarce, but it is known that he married fellow dancer Maria Shirinkina in 2012. Reports suggest that he had been recovering from foot surgery while on pain medication at the time of his death. According to Irina Bartnovskaya, a former ballerina, Shklyarov fell from a narrow balcony after stepping out during a moment of pain relief. This account, while not independently verified, was echoed in various media outlets, shedding light on the tragic circumstances surrounding his death.
As the ballet community mourns the loss of a brilliant talent, tributes are likely to pour in, highlighting his impact on the art form, both in Russia and beyond.
A St. Petersburg native, Shklyarov trained at the distinguished Vaganova Ballet Academy and joined Mariinsky immediately following his graduation in 2003. His repertoire included acclaimed works such as “Swan Lake,” “Giselle,” and “Don Quixote.” Shklyarov’s artistry earned him numerous accolades, most notably the Léonide Massine International Prize in 2008, and he was honored as an artist of Russia in 2020, an acknowledgment he cherished deeply.
Details regarding his family are scarce, but it is known that he married fellow dancer Maria Shirinkina in 2012. Reports suggest that he had been recovering from foot surgery while on pain medication at the time of his death. According to Irina Bartnovskaya, a former ballerina, Shklyarov fell from a narrow balcony after stepping out during a moment of pain relief. This account, while not independently verified, was echoed in various media outlets, shedding light on the tragic circumstances surrounding his death.
As the ballet community mourns the loss of a brilliant talent, tributes are likely to pour in, highlighting his impact on the art form, both in Russia and beyond.
