Allen is a long-time playwright whose works have been performed extensively in Chicago, throughout the U.S., and on the radio. Many have lesbian themes. She has received several major awards for her work, and well-known stars - including Tyne Daly and Julie Harris - have performed in her plays. She is a playwright in residence at the Tony-winning Victory Gardens Theatre in Chicago. Currently Allen is best known nationally for the film version of her play Hannah Free, which stars Sharon Gless in the lead role.