DON’T ASK
a new play by hayley procacci
synopsis
Set between 1983 and 1993, Don't Ask is a queer fantasia following the story of Lieutenant Keenan, a pioneer lesbian figure who came out to the nation to openly fight the ban on gays in the military.
Through a cappella military cadences and an ensemble of interchanging characters that move the play through time and location, Don't Ask weaves together historical events, memory, and psychological space as the visceral journey of one young woman’s story unfolds in the wake of a relentless political movement.
Through theatricality and fantastical non-realism, Don’t Ask navigates themes of queer identity, community, family abuse, and systemic power, ultimately asking the timeless question: What is the cost of fighting to be a part of something that rejects who you are?
creative team
written and created by Hayley Procacci
directed by Hayley Procacci* and Karla Koskinen
produced by The UAB Department of Theatre and Alys Stephens Center
stage managed by Alexander DeWolfe
scenic design… Alan E. Schwanke
lighting design… Kelly Allison
sound design… David Page
property design… Inji Ha
costume design… Dana Guadajaro Anaya
script consultation… Karla Koskinen
choreographer… Hayley Procacci
rifle choreographer… Roy Lightner
ROTC consultant… Jasmine Chaney
dramaturg… Selby Whaley
intimacy coordinator… Mona Eldahsoury
assistant director… Kris L. Brooks
production manager… Therrin Eber
featuring Cheslee Duke, Georgia Williams, Sammy Sledd, Owen McManus, Keyon Lewis-Sayles, Evelyn Shores, Isaiah Leslie, Patrick Wilson, Charlie Brownd, and Jared Owens.
production photos by Taylor Campbell
videography by Abigail Pruett
*Guest Artist
*Collegiate World Premiere
press
“While this story takes place between 1983 and 1993, Mo is universally relatable. Don’t Ask didn’t answer the question but instead left me asking, "What is the cost to ourselves and to humanity if we don’t allow everyone the basic human right to define their own identity?”
–Kelsey Risher, Ripple and Current
“New, original play by Theatre UAB grad to have world premiere performance”
awards
Excellence in Directing–American College Theatre Festival
Excellence in Choreography–American College Theatre Festival
next in development…
Don’t Ask was awarded a grant for Redtwist Theatre’s Independent Project Initiative for a developmental workshop and reading in 2026-27.
now accepting submissions for the chicago developmental workshop until july 30, 2026.
audience reviews
"Life-changing experience from Hayley Procacci. Perfect and eye-opening."
—Robin Lacy
“A must see. This show beautifully carries so many heavy themes and yet is still human. A modern masterclass in writing, directing, and acting.”
—Jimmy Kratt
“This play combines some of my favorite theatrical elements—ensemble storytelling, documentary underpinning, and fluid scenic action—to tell a story that resonates on both a personal level and a historic one. The characters feel vibrant, captured at crucial moments, and the dialogue effortless. I also really love how the pacing supports and drives Mo's challenge to control their own destiny even as they discover it. a timely and emotionally resonant script!”
—MT Cozzola
“A mix of real history and imaginative storytelling, Don’t Ask took me through Mo's memories, emotions, and experiences as she struggled with her identity and the pressure of becoming a symbol for change. This work reminded me that behind every political movement is a real person with their own hopes and fears.
This work is moving and honest. Don’t Ask shines a light on an important part of LGBTQ+ history, telling a deeply personal story about courage, identity, and standing up for who you are.”
–Luann Sinnen
“Truly moving and gorgeously written, directed, choreographed, acted, and lit. I shed more than a few tears… and found it utterly compelling.”
—Dr. Kristine Hurst-Wajszcuk