‘A huge loss’: Russian ballet dancer dies at 39 following five-story fall


Russian ballet dancer Vladimir Shklyarov has died at the age of 39.

The Mariinsky Theatre, an opera house in Russia, shared the news and a tribute to the late star, while the head of the Mariinsky Theater press service told the outlet Fontanka that he died following a fall from a fifth floor.

According to the outlet, he died on November 16 and that his death has been ruled “an accident”.

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Russian ballet dancer Vladimir Shklyarov has died at 39. (The Washington Post via Getty Images)

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He was reportedly set to have a “spinal operation” for a “back injury” on November 18 and was said to be on “painkillers” before the fall.

The Mariinsky Theater shared the shock news and a tribute to the dancer, calling him “the public’s favourite”.

“Tonight, the public’s favorite, the star premier of the Mariinsky Theater Vladimir Shklyarov, died tragically,” they wrote.

“This is a huge loss not only for the theater staff, but also for the entire ballet art of today. Our condolences to the artist’s family, friends, and all the many fans of his work and talent.”

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“An expressive, completely inimitable actor and a virtuoso, academically impeccable dancer, who can master all styles – this is how Vladimir Shklyarov will be remembered by the audience.

They added in part: “Over two decades of his stage career, his repertoire has become truly immense.”

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He is survived by his ballerina wife Maria Shirinkina and their two children.

Hailing from St Petersburg, Shklyarov became a principal at the Mariinsky Ballet in 2011. He starred in productions including Swan Lake and The Nutcracker.

Russian ballet dancer Diana Vishneva shared a tribute on Xsaying: “It is impossible to comprehenсe how early and unfair you passed away.”

“This is the tragedy for our theatre, our common grief, feeling of emptiness. My beautiful Romeo, my Prince in Cinderella. RIP.”

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