Russian Ballet Star Vladimir Shklyarov Dies in Tragic Fall

The 39-year-old dancer fell from a balcony in Saint Petersburg as he prepared for spinal surgery.

Vladimir Shklyarov, a principal dancer at the Mariinsky Theatre, died after falling from a fifth-floor balcony.
Shklyarov was taking painkillers for a back injury and was scheduled for spinal surgery the following Monday.
His death is being investigated by Russian authorities, who have preliminarily ruled it an accident.
Shklyarov had previously criticized Russia's invasion of Ukraine but remained in the country to continue performing.
He is survived by two children and was widely celebrated for his performances in major ballet productions worldwide.