The ballet world is mourning the de.ath of Vladimir Shklyarov, one of its leading male dancers.
Shklyarov, a principal with the prestigious Mariinsky Theatre, was an “extraordinary artist” who inspired fans worldwide, one tribute said.
His de.ath, announced by the St Petersburg company on Saturday, is being investigated by federal authorities, according to Russian media reports.
Mariinsky representatives told media he had fallen from the fifth floor of a St Petersburg building while on painkillers.
“This is a huge loss not only for the theatre’s staff but for all of contemporary ballet,” the company said in a statement on Saturday.
“Our condolences to the artist’s family, loved ones, friends and all the numerous admirers of his work and talent.”
Shklyarov was married to fellow company dancer Maria Shklyarov, with whom he had two children.
