Ballet World Mourns the Loss of Vladimir Shklyarov, 39, Who Tragically Died After Fall in St. Petersburg
World-renowned ballet dancer Vladimir Shklyarov, 39, died in a tragic fall from the fifth floor of his apartment building in St. Petersburg on Saturday. The circumstances surrounding the accident have sparked mixed reports and speculation.
Local media initially suggested the fall occurred as Shklyarov attempted to escape his apartment, allegedly locked by his ex-wife at his request to prevent him from purchasing drugs. However, close friends and colleagues have dismissed this version of events as malicious and inaccurate.
Ballerina Irina Bartnovskaya, a friend of the late artist, offered a different account, saying he fell from his balcony while stepping out to smoke. She described the incident as a “stupid, unbearable accident,” emphasizing Shklyarov’s zest for life, his love for his family, and his devotion to his audience.
A representative from the Mariinsky Theater, where Shklyarov was a leading figure, revealed he had been on painkillers in preparation for a complex spinal surgery scheduled for Monday. An investigation is ongoing, with the preliminary cause of death listed as accidental by Russian news agency RIA Novosti.
A Global Icon of Ballet
Shklyarov was celebrated as one of the world’s premier ballet dancers, gracing stages at the Metropolitan Opera in New York, the Royal Opera House in London, and the Mariinsky Theater. His remarkable talent earned him numerous awards, cementing his legacy in the history of ballet.
In a statement, the Mariinsky Theater said,
“This is a huge loss not only for the theater’s staff, but for all of today’s ballet art. His boundless creative abilities were recognized with numerous awards. Our condolences to his family, loved ones, and all who admired his work.”
The American Ballet Theatre echoed these sentiments, saying,
“We mourn the tragic loss of Vladimir Shklyarov, an extraordinary artist whose grace and passion inspired audiences worldwide. Your light will continue to shine through the beauty you brought to this world.”
A Voice for Peace
Beyond his artistry, Shklyarov was also known for his vocal opposition to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In a 2022 social media post, he expressed his sorrow over the war, recalling his family’s deep ties to Ukraine and advocating for peace.
“I am against the war in Ukraine! I want to dance… I want to love everyone—that is the purpose of my life,”
he wrote. His powerful words resonated with many as a call for unity amidst conflict.
A Legacy Remembered
Vladimir Shklyarov’s death leaves an irreplaceable void in the world of ballet and among those who admired his art and courage. As investigations continue, the world mourns the loss of a man whose grace, passion, and humanity touched countless lives.
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