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the goingbarefoot collective

Having sat solo at this goingbarefoot table now for quite some time, it’s a great feeling to add chairs for two longtime industry colleagues and friends whom I so deeply admire and respect. Please join me in welcoming Ms. Sharon Moore and Mr. Tracy Francis to what we’re informally calling ‘the goingbarefoot collective.’ READ MORE

Mike Wiley, Actor/Playwright
Mike Wiley Productions

“Astonishing in content and performance…This is more than versatility – it’s virtuosity… Brilliantly crafted… The best of the best…”

"History tells us that when society is hurt or wounded, and in tumult or turmoil, the arts have rescued us. While a painting or a film or a song is no vaccine, nor peace treaty, they are however light in the darkness, laughter in the rain and music to press on to. And in that salve that soothes the world's wounds, we find the elixir of hope. Hope that makes life worth living, worth fighting for. The arts give us hope, that united we are greater than the sum of our problems, greater than the sum of our differences. Art transcends social distancing, travel bans and quarantines. Art will document these dark days yes, but art will also lead us out of them."
Mike Wiley, Jan. 20, 2021

“By portraying an entire cast, black, white, female or male, Mike Wiley addresses the heinous nature of hate. His work reminds us in every frame that we are all of one humanity.”
Deirdre Haj, former Executive Director
Full Frame Documentary Film Festival
Durham, NC

goingbarefoot’s Airbnb
in Durham, NC

One of fewer than 20 Airbnb Belo Award winners in the world; 850+ 5-star reviews

“Concierge & caretaker…Airbnb’s Superhost designation couldn’t be more apt…There should probably a statue of this guy in Durham Central Park…”

"An exceptional host. Lodging was immaculate with an air of culture and history, furnishings comfortable and whimsical, and the garden made our morning. Stephen has a wonderful attention to detail in his decor and hospitality. From refreshments to the bed being better than mine back home, we could not have been more pleased.”

“The Airbnb was adorned with wonderful artifacts as well as amenities that we have never seen at any other Airbnb. The fridge was stocked with drinks, a variety of yoghurts and even Prosecco. The bathroom was complete with toothbrushes, toothpaste, and even mouthwash! Most importantly, the beds were the most comfortable beds of any Airbnb we’ve ever used - and the entire Airbnb was immaculately clean. Make sure that spent time in the amazing garden…enjoy the serenity!”

“The best club, the very best, I’ve ever set foot into…” Author & jazz critic R.C. Smith

“Barefoot, you made magic for me.” Shirley Horn

"Stephen Barefoot, a home-grown Mike Todd…" Samuel Goldwyn, Jr., Box Office Magazine

“One of the happiest engagements of my life…” George Shearing

“You’ll never find a better club than Stephen’s, really. I’ve never been able to say that before, anywhere.” Sir Richard Rodney Bennett

“Do you think anyone at all will remember me after I’m gone?” Carol Sloane