The Mariinsky Theatre's premier conductor, Honored Artist of Russia Vladimir Shklyarov died suddenly.
The reasons for the 39-year-old artist's death have not yet been disclosed.
The tragic loss was reported by the theatre via its Telegram channel.
The outstanding principal dancer of the Mariinsky Theatre, Vladimir Shklyarov, died tragically tonight, the statement said.
The theatre company expressed its sincere condolences to the artist’s family and friends.
The statement emphasized that Shklyarov’s departure was a great loss for the theater and its fans.
Vladimir Shklyarov was a star of the ballet stage. In 2003, he began his career at the Mariinsky Theatre. In 2011, he became a theatre principal.
During his stellar career, Shklyarov performed leading roles in legendary productions.
Fans fell in love with the artist for his virtuosity in The Nutcracker, Swan Lake, and Romeo and Juliet.
In 2020, Shklyarov was awarded the title of Honored Artist of Russia.
The artist's colleagues call what happened a huge tragedy, but are not commenting on the details of the incident.