Biography
Darlene Kaplan’s career in arts and entertainment began at Yale where she ran the Davenport Dramat. Upon her graduation she began her professional journey in New York City as the literary executive and casting director for the WPA Theatre, where she developed and cast over 30 plays, including Little Shop of Horrors and Steel Magnolias. After moving to Los Angeles, she spent three years on staff at Universal Television, where she cast the original pilot of Law & Order. She then became an independent casting director for television pilots, series, movies for television and features. Kaplan is currently a theatrical manager representing actors (including a number of Yalies) in film, television and theater.
Kaplan currently serves as Vice-Chair of Yale Women, and is a volunteer for the Yale Alumni Fund and as an ASC interviewer. Before moving back to New York City, she was a board member of the Yale Club of Los Angeles and served as an ASC Director in Southern California. She has reconnected with her classmates through work on the gift committee for her 35th and 40th reunions, and as co-chair of her 45th reunion. Other volunteer activities have included mentoring with the Fulfillment Fund, which aims to make college accessible for underserved students, and serving on the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance Campaign Advisory Committee.
Kaplan is honored to be a member of the YAA Board of Governors and looks forward to continuing her work alongside the dedicated Yale alumni on the board, while also taking this opportunity to reach out to broader Yale community.
