In this manuscript, we describe the efficient synthesis of a bis(allenamide) functionalized water-soluble azobenzene reagent (BSBDA) and its application as a new tool for the rapid generation of visible light-responsive macrocyclic peptides and peptide libraries displayed on the surface of bacteriophage. The allenamide functionality promotes cysteine ligation in model peptides and those displayed on phage with rates 2-3 orders of magnitude faster than the established alkyl halide containing azobenzenes.