Russian ballet loses one of its brightest stars. Vladimir Shklyarov, principal dancer of the prestigious Mariinsky Theater in St. Petersburg, died tragically last Saturday at the age of 39. The dancer, who was to undergo spinal surgery on Monday, fell to his death from the fifth floor of his building.
The sudden disappearance of Vladimir Shklyarov raises questions
The circumstances of the tragedy were clarified by several sources close to the artist. Irina Baranovskaya, collaborator of the dancer, delivered a poignant testimony on Telegram: “It’s a stupid and unbearable accident. He went out onto the balcony to get some fresh air and lost his balance on this very narrow balcony. » Anna Kasatkina, a spokeswoman for the Mariinsky Theater, confirmed that the dancer was receiving pain treatment for a back injury, awaiting surgery scheduled for the following Monday. According to the RIA Novosti news agency, the preliminary investigation favors the accidental theory. An “accident” which is strangely reminiscent of the one that killed Liam Payne last month!
Vladimir Shklyarov, an exceptional artist at the top of his art
The Mariinsky Theatre, deeply shaken by this loss, paid a vibrant tribute to the man who left his mark on its history: “An expressive, absolutely inimitable performer and virtuoso dancer, academically impeccable, who masters all styles. » Shklyarov's career demonstrates rare excellence. Joining the troupe in 2003 after training at the prestigious Vaganova Academy, he rose to the rank of principal dancer in 2011. In 2020, he received the title of“Honored Artist of Russia”the crowning achievement of an exceptional journey.
Her stage partner Diana Vishneva shared her immense grief on Instagram: “It’s unfair that you left so soon. It's a tragedy for our theater, for us and for your loved ones. You will leave a big void (…) You always came with a smile and joy (…) You were so loved. For many of us, you were our best dance partner. »
The legacy of a committed artist
Beyond his performances in the great classics of the repertoire (Swan Lake, Giselle, Sleeping Beauty), Vladimir Shklyarov distinguished himself by his courageous positions. In 2022, he publicly expressed his opposition to the Russian invasion of Ukraine: “I am against all war […] Politicians should negotiate without shooting and killing civilians […] It's impossible to look at everything that's happening today without crying […] I don't want wars or borders. »
Vladimir Shklyarov is survived by his wife Maria Shirinkina, a Mariinsky soloist dancer whom he married in 2013, and their two children.
