Vladimir Shklyarov, renowned Russian ballet star, tragically dies after tragic fall from apartment balcony

Vladimir Shklyarov, a principal dancer at the Mariinsky Ballet in St. Petersburg, Russia, passed away after falling from an apartment block balcony at the age of 39. Initial reports suggest his death was accidental. The Mariinsky Ballet announced they would hold a farewell ceremony for him before his funeral on Thursday. Shklyarov was known for his expertise in classical Russian ballet and had received numerous accolades for his performances. He had also danced at the Royal Ballet in London and the Bavarian State Ballet in Munich. Irina Bartnovskaya, who runs a ballet-focused Telegram channel, was one of the first to report on Shklyarov’s death which was captured on CCTV. Shklyarov was dealing with severe back, foot, and hip pain, and had been preparing for an operation. He leaves behind two young children and was reportedly divorced from his ballerina wife Maria Shirinkina, who is also a first soloist at the Mariinsky. Shklyarov is remembered as someone who loved life, his family, and his audience, and has made a significant impact on the world of ballet.

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