Overview of the Incident

In a shocking turn of events, Vladimir Shklyarov, one of the most celebrated ballet dancers in Russia, has passed away after accidentally falling from a fifth-floor balcony in St. Petersburg. The Mariinsky Theatre, where the talented 39-year-old served as a principal dancer, confirmed his death on November 16.

Theatre's Statement and Community Reaction

The theatre released a heartfelt statement on Instagram, mourning the loss of their 'star premier' and expressing deep condolences to Shklyarov's family, friends, and dedicated fans. 'This is a huge loss not only for the theatre’s staff but for all of contemporary ballet,' the statement read, highlighting the immense impact Shklyarov had on the art form.

Investigation and Preliminary Reports

Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the fall, with preliminary reports suggesting it was an accident. According to Russian news agency RIA Novosti, Shklyarov had been taking painkillers for a recent injury and was scheduled to undergo spinal surgery just days before his tragic death. Theatre spokesperson Anna Kasatkina mentioned that during the incident, he had gone out onto the narrow balcony to take a break and likely lost his footing.

Shklyarov's Career Highlights

Since joining the Mariinsky Theatre as a principal dancer in 2011, Shklyarov's mesmerizing performances in iconic ballets like 'Romeo and Juliet,' 'Swan Lake,' and 'Sleeping Beauty' had captivated audiences around the world. His artistry earned him accolades and a reputation as a leading figure in the ballet community.

Tributes from the Ballet Community

The American Ballet Theatre, where he performed as a guest artist in 2014 and 2015, also paid tribute to Shklyarov, stating, 'Today, we mourn the tragic loss of Vladimir Shklyarov, an extraordinary artist whose grace and passion inspired audiences worldwide.' Fellow dancer Diana Vishneva described his death as a 'tragedy' for the ballet world, emphasizing the love and admiration he received from both peers and audiences alike.

Personal Reflections and Legacy

Irina Bartnovskaya, who runs a popular Telegram channel dedicated to ballet, was among the first to share the news of his death. She recounted the heartbreaking circumstances, mentioning that Shklyarov was relaxing at home and preparing for surgery when the accident occurred. 'He loved life, his family, and adored his children and his audience,' she stated, reflecting the profound loss felt by many.

Survivors and Lasting Impact

Shklyarov is survived by his wife, Maria Shirinkina, who is also a dancer at the Mariinsky Theatre, along with their two children, a son and a daughter. The ballet community and fans worldwide mourn the loss of a remarkable talent whose legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of dancers.