❊ About Michael

Smiling man with a beard and mustache, wearing a green jacket over a black graphic t-shirt with a heart and swirling design, standing outdoors at night with blurred lights in the background.

Hey there! I'm the founder of Voice Works Lab. I've been performing my whole life, starting at age 9 in New York City with the Wooster Theatre Group alongside Willem Dafoe and Spalding Gray. I went on to study theatre at UCLA, and since then have worked in film, TV, commercials, theatre, and voice acting in both LA and New York. I even sang in a comedy rap duo that opened for Jack Black's band, Tenacious D, at Madison Square Garden. I do voices on animated shows like Kung-Fu Panda, Big Nate, Wee Baby Bears, and more!

Teaching found me in the best way. It started with an improv class at my daughter's elementary school, and after some requests from parents, I began teaching voice acting. Then something unexpected happened. Neurodivergent students kept finding their way to me, and I started noticing the impact the classes were having on them in ways I never anticipated. Word spread, and before long, therapists and specialists began referring students to me directly.

I'm neurodivergent myself, and so is my daughter, so I've lived this from both sides. I know what it feels like to have a brain that works differently, and I know what it's like to raise a child who does too. That shapes everything about how I teach: the patience, the flexibility, the humor, and most importantly, meeting each student exactly where they are.

What inspires me is what I see happening in these classes. The growth I witness in my students, session after session, is honestly one of the most rewarding things I've ever been part of.

Some of my voice-over work

Mr. Galvin on “Big Nate” - Nickelodeon

The Rooster on “Kung Fu Panda - Paws Of Destiny” - Amazon Prime Video

The Troll on “Wee Baby Bears” - Cartoon Network

A man in casual clothing, standing behind a microphone and sound equipment in a recording studio, with a laptop on a stand and a chair nearby.

Recording for Wee Baby Bears at Cartoon Newtwork.

A collage featuring animated characters from 'Big Nate' and 'Clarence' alongside a photo of a man described as the voice of Mr. Galvin, Michael Rybkin. The characters include a relaxed green creature at sunset, a girl running down stairs, and various animated scientists and animals. The collage emphasizes the voice actor for Mr. Galvin.

My character, Mr. Galvin, the science teacher, from Big Nate on Nickelodeon.

A young woman wearing a yellow hat and a beige headscarf, holding a coat, stands next to a man with dark hair and a patterned shirt. They are in a room with green walls, a black curtain, and various objects, including a television and bookshelves.

Performing with Spalding Grey with the Wooster Group Theatre in New York City.

❊ Testimonials

Loved by Student. Trusted by Parents.

Seriously! But don’t take our word for it, here are some things people have to say about us.

"My son thoroughly enjoyed taking this class!  The instructor always had engaging scripts for the students to read from. My son had such great time creating unique and captivating voices.  It helped to build his confidence and nurtured his creativity.  I highly recommend this class to anyone!."

Claire B., Parent

"Michael Rivkin is an outstanding instructor… we cannot say enough wonderful things about him!! In every class, he is both professional and prepared, as well as an enthusiastic and dynamic teacher. Michael is very encouraging and engages with my student to get him excited about the lessons week to week! He makes my student feel very comfortable and unembarrassed to tackle something new!! "

Sarah C., Parent

"This class was as magical as we imagined it would be for our son. He can't wait to join another session. 
I'm so grateful we found Michael Rivkin's work-- he's extremely gifted at his craft and engaging with the students. 10/10"

Maggie Z., Parent