Bistable coupled systems can exhibit nonlinear waves. Domino waves represent a simple example of nonlinear waves in everyday life. Domino waves are observed in extended bistable chains in which a domino has two stable equilibrium positions: vertical and horizontal. These elements are reciprocally coupled. That is, if one exchanges the role of transmitter and receiver, the observed propagation in the falling dominoes is the same. However, it is not known what is the impact of non-reciprocal coupling on the propagation of nonlinear waves. Based on an experiment using a liquid crystal light valve with optical feedback, we study the propagation of nonlinear waves in a one-dimensional discrete chain. We show that it is possible to control the propagation of nonlinear waves by means of an experimental parameter. We derive a theoretical model which is shown to be in good agreement with experimental observations.