The ballet community is mourning the unexpected and tragic loss of Vladimir Shklyarov, a prominent figure known for his exceptional talent and artistry. The esteemed principal dancer with the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg, Shklyarov reportedly fell from a fifth-floor window, leading to investigations by federal authorities as per local media sources.
Vladimir Shklyarov: A Tragic Loss for Ballet Community at Age 39

Vladimir Shklyarov: A Tragic Loss for Ballet Community at Age 39
The ballet world is in shock as renowned dancer Vladimir Shklyarov passes away, prompting investigations into his untimely death.
Shklyarov's death was confirmed in a statement from the Mariinsky Theatre, where representatives described him as an "extraordinary artist" who had touched the hearts of many fans around the globe. They expressed their heartfelt condolences to his family, including his wife, fellow dancer Maria Shklyarov, and their two children.
Born in Leningrad, Shklyarov honed his craft at the prestigious Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet, graduating in 2003. He joined the Mariinsky Theatre the same year and ascended to principal dancer by 2011. Over his two-decade career, he captivated audiences in leading roles in classical masterpieces like Giselle, Swan Lake, and Romeo and Juliet. His performances graced many world-renowned stages, including London’s Royal Opera House and New York’s Metropolitan Opera.
Shklyarov's impact extended beyond the Mariinsky Theatre; he also performed as a guest artist with the American Ballet Theatre in 2014 and 2015. The theater expressed their sorrow, honoring Shklyarov’s legacy as an artist whose elegance and commitment inspired countless fans worldwide.
Among his many accolades, he received the Léonide Massine International Prize in 2008 and was designated an Honoured Artist of Russia in 2020. The Mariinsky Theatre remarked that he "forever inscribed his name in the history of world ballet," leaving behind a legacy that will continue to resonate within the dance community for years to come.
Born in Leningrad, Shklyarov honed his craft at the prestigious Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet, graduating in 2003. He joined the Mariinsky Theatre the same year and ascended to principal dancer by 2011. Over his two-decade career, he captivated audiences in leading roles in classical masterpieces like Giselle, Swan Lake, and Romeo and Juliet. His performances graced many world-renowned stages, including London’s Royal Opera House and New York’s Metropolitan Opera.
Shklyarov's impact extended beyond the Mariinsky Theatre; he also performed as a guest artist with the American Ballet Theatre in 2014 and 2015. The theater expressed their sorrow, honoring Shklyarov’s legacy as an artist whose elegance and commitment inspired countless fans worldwide.
Among his many accolades, he received the Léonide Massine International Prize in 2008 and was designated an Honoured Artist of Russia in 2020. The Mariinsky Theatre remarked that he "forever inscribed his name in the history of world ballet," leaving behind a legacy that will continue to resonate within the dance community for years to come.