MOSCOW, Russia, Nov 18: The ballet world is in mourning following the death of Vladimir Shklyarov, a leading male dancer and principal at the renowned Mariinsky Theatre. Shklyarov, celebrated as an "extraordinary artist" who inspired audiences globally, passed away under circumstances that are now being investigated by federal authorities, according to Russian media.

The Mariinsky Theatre announced his death on Saturday, stating that he fell from the fifth floor of a St. Petersburg building while on painkillers. The company described his passing as a tremendous loss not just for the theatre but for contemporary ballet as a whole. "Our condolences go to the artist's family, loved ones, friends, and all the countless admirers of his work and talent," they said in a statement.

Shklyarov was married to fellow dancer Maria Shklyarov, and the couple had two children. Born in Leningrad, he trained at the prestigious Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet, graduating in 2003. That same year, he joined the Mariinsky Theatre, rising to the rank of principal dancer in 2011. Over his 20-year career with the company, he performed leading roles in iconic productions such as Giselle, Sleeping Beauty, Don Quixote, Swan Lake, and Romeo and Juliet.

Shklyarov also graced some of the world’s most esteemed stages, including the Royal Opera House in London and the Metropolitan Opera in New York. As a guest artist with the American Ballet Theatre in 2014 and 2015, he further cemented his international reputation. The company expressed deep sorrow on Sunday, paying tribute to his "tragic loss" and celebrating his "grace and passion" that inspired audiences worldwide.

Throughout his illustrious career, Shklyarov received numerous accolades, including the Léonide Massine International Prize in 2008. In 2020, he was named an Honoured Artist of Russia. "He forever inscribed his name in the history of world ballet," the Mariinsky Theatre stated.