United States
The Ivan Franko National Academic Drama Theater, in collaboration with Ivan Uryvskyi and the 1st Corps of the National Guard of Ukraine "Azov", has created "Odyssey ~ Maeotis"— a contemporary story interpreted through one of Europe's best-known myths. Ajax Systems is one of the partners supporting the production.
The premiere took place on August 28, with further performances scheduled for September and October.
The project aims to affirm the right of Ukraine and Ukrainians to reclaim their history, culture, names, and territories. At the heart of the "Odyssey ~ Maeotis" narrative lies the image of Mariupol. For "Azov," it is more than just a city — it is where the unit was founded and where it faced its toughest trials. In the project, Mariupol is portrayed as Ithaca — the home to which one is meant to return. Twelve years of combat experience, the defense of Azovstal, and captivity have all become part of this story.
Supporting culture is one of the areas that is important to us and that we pay special attention to. Protection is not only about perimeters — it is also about preserving the memory and history that cannot be lost. We are glad to contribute to a project that addresses issues so deeply relevant to Ukrainian society.
The idea was born organically within the unit. We recognized ourselves in this myth rather than deliberately searching for it. The play became our invitation to a shared conversation about returning. Through the depersonalized, abstracted stories of Azov soldiers, the audience experiences key moments from the beginning of the defense of Mariupol and, together with the characters, follows an imagined journey home — a journey that, in reality, is yet to be completed.
First came the deed. No word can stand before it. Homer came after Odysseus: Ithaca remained in the world's memory because someone found the words to sing of the journey to it. We thank all the partners who give these words a chance to be heard — by opening the stage to them, investing their work in them, and taking on the weight of memory. Special thanks to those who do this consistently and remain by our side over time.
This is not the first joint initiative between Ajax Systems and "Azov." In 2024, the Air Alert app, co-developed by Ajax Systems, partnered with the NGO AZOV.ONE. Together, they launched the "Shield and Pulse" fundraising campaign to support the medical service of the 12th Special Forces Brigade "Azov" of the National Guard of Ukraine. This year, the app is supporting the "Eastern Barrier" fundraising campaign to purchase equipment that will help the brigade counter aerial threats in critical areas of the front line.
Ajax Systems also has a long-standing partnership with the Ivan Franko National Academic Drama Theater. In particular, last year, the company upgraded the theater's video surveillance system to enhance the security of the venue.
Ajax Systems is an international tech company and the largest manufacturer of security systems in Europe, with over 4.5 million end users and 330K PRO users in more than 180 countries worldwide. The company offers end-to-end solutions for protecting homes and businesses of any scale. To date, Ajax product portfolio includes 280 devices for intrusion protection, video surveillance, fire and life safety, and comfort and automation.
