Simran Joshi
Renowned Russian ballet star Vladimir Shklyarov tragically passed away on Saturday after reportedly falling from the fifth floor of a building in St. Petersburg.
The 38-year-old principal dancer of the prestigious Mariinsky Theatre had captivated global audiences with his extraordinary performances in iconic productions like Swan Lake and Romeo and Juliet.
Shklyarov, who had publicly opposed Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, was just days away from undergoing complex spinal surgery and had been battling severe pain. Russian authorities have launched an investigation into his death, with preliminary reports suggesting it was an accident.
A Tragic End to a Dazzling Career
One of Russia’s greatest ballet dancers, Vladimir Shklyarov, died Sunday after falling from the fifth floor of a building on Saturday. The whole world and ballet community in general mourns his very untimely death.
According to the Mariinsky Theatre, where he had been serving as a principal dancer, his death was “a huge loss for all of us at the Mariinsky Theatre”. Shklyarov was scheduled for complex spinal surgery in just two days and had been on “serious painkillers” for some time.
The authorities have launched an investigation into his death. State media RIA Novosti now believes the “preliminary cause” of his death may have been an accident. An emergency services source, speaking to CNN, said, “He died of natural causes. It’s not a crime.” Official findings are awaited, but his death has clouded the world of ballet. A Legacy of Artistic
Excellence and Courage
Born in St. Petersburg, Shklyarov trained at the esteemed Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet and joined the Mariinsky Theatre in 2003. Over a 20-year career, he enthralled audiences in iconic productions like Swan Lake and Romeo and Juliet.
The Mariinsky Theatre commemorated his artistry, stating, “We mourn the tragic loss of Vladimir Shklyarov, an extraordinary artist whose grace and passion inspired audiences worldwide.”
Beyond the artistic merit, Shklyarov gained attention for his political stance regarding the invasion of Ukraine by Russia in 2022.
His words – “I am against the war in Ukraine! I am for people, for peaceful skies above our heads” – of great intonation. A great dancer and a man of conviction, he leaves behind his wife, Maria Shirinkina, and two children, who now carry his legacy forward.
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