Remember the highly anticipated Lakewood Home Festival? Among the many exquisite properties showcased, one particularly captivating residence stood out: the remarkable home of acclaimed artist Shannon Kincaid and her husband, Dr. Allen Stringer, a respected ObGyn at Baylor. Shannon Kincaid’s artistic talent has garnered widespread recognition, with her striking paintings even being acquired by notable figures such as Oprah Winfrey. We previously shared our admiration for this stunning property, delving into its unique charm during a Q&A session with Shannon last November, highlighting what makes it such a cherished Dallas gem.
Dallas Home Becomes the Heart of “Occupy Texas” Film
In an exciting turn of events, the Kincaid/Stringer residence has become more than just a beautiful home; it now serves as the central inspiration and primary filming location for a new feature film, “Occupy Texas,” currently being shot in Dallas throughout this month and next. This compelling drama is the brainchild of Dallas native Gene Gallerano, an alumnus of the prestigious Booker T. Washington School for the Performing Arts, who has since forged a successful career as an actor and screenwriter in New York City. Having had the exclusive opportunity to review the script, we can confidently say it delivers a powerful narrative that promises to resonate deeply with audiences.
The Gripping Plot of “Occupy Texas”
“Occupy Texas” introduces us to Beau Baker, a young man deeply immersed in the Occupy Wall Street movement, whose life takes an unexpected and tragic turn. Pulled away from his fervent social altruism and the transient existence of sleeping on the streets of NYC, Beau is forced to return to his roots in Dallas, Texas. His world has been irrevocably shattered by the sudden death of his parents, both highly successful and influential professionals, in a devastating car wreck. This profound loss thrusts Beau into an unfamiliar role: he must “man up” and assume responsibility for his younger sisters, a daunting task for someone who is grappling with his own internal turmoil and grief. The film masterfully traces Beau’s intricate journey of evolution, inner search, and profound self-growth as he navigates the labyrinthine complexities of his loss, sorrow, and the underlying family drama that has historically plagued him. Through poignant flashbacks and raw emotional confrontations, the narrative explores the fractured relationships within his family, particularly his distant connection with his little sister. “Occupy Texas” culminates with a surprising and insightful twist, challenging viewers to reconsider Beau’s true preparedness to confront and overcome the monumental challenges life has thrown his way. It’s a story of resilience, responsibility, and the unexpected paths to personal redemption.
A Star-Studded Cast Brings the Story to Life
The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, featuring celebrated talents such as Peri Gilpin, renowned for her role as Roz Doyle in “Frasier,” Janine Turner, best known for her work on “Northern Exposure,” and Lorelei Linklater, the daughter of acclaimed filmmaker Richard Linklater, who brings a fresh perspective to her character. Their combined talent is set to elevate this production, ensuring a compelling and memorable cinematic experience. “Occupy Texas” is slated for completion this fall, with an eagerly anticipated debut at various film festivals and theaters in the spring and summer of next year. Film enthusiasts and local audiences alike are already buzzing with anticipation for this poignant and thought-provoking drama.
7130 Brookcove: More Than Just a Set
Beyond its human stars, 7130 Brookcove, the Kincaid/Stringer residence, is poised to become a star in its own right, playing a pivotal role in “Occupy Texas.” This magnificent Italian villa-inspired home, with its distinctive architecture and serene ambiance, is far more than just a backdrop; it’s an integral character in the film’s narrative, mirroring the journey and transformation of its human counterparts. Shannon Kincaid fondly describes their haven as “our own little Under the Tuscan Sun in Dallas,” a sentiment that perfectly captures the home’s enchanting beauty and the profound sense of peace and belonging it inspires. “We love this house so much,” she expresses, “I am thankful for every day we are here.” This deep personal connection to the home undoubtedly lends an authentic and palpable warmth to its cinematic representation, making it truly come alive on screen.
From Ranch House to Italian Villa: A Remarkable Transformation
It’s truly astonishing to consider the humble origins of what is now an expansive, Italian-inspired estate. Shannon and Allen’s journey with this property began in 1991 when they purchased a modest two-bedroom, two-bath ranch home, originally built around 1956. Fast forward to 2012, and the couple embarked on an ambitious and comprehensive renovation project that left virtually no stone unturned. The original structure was taken down to its bare studs, paving the way for a dramatic expansion. They meticulously added a second story, creating new living spaces and enhancing the home’s vertical presence. Further additions included spacious back rooms, a unique kiva-type fireplace that adds a touch of rustic charm, an enormous state-of-the-art kitchen, and a sprawling family room designed for comfort and entertainment. What was once the garage was ingeniously converted into Shannon’s vibrant art studio, a sanctuary for her creative endeavors. After repurposing the original garage, a new, thoughtfully designed garage was constructed, seamlessly integrating into the property’s refreshed aesthetic. This extensive overhaul dramatically increased the home’s square footage to an impressive 6,712 square feet. While two of the original bedrooms still remain, the transformation is so complete that it’s nearly impossible to discern its former life as a conventional ranch home. This radical change even confounded Gene Gallerano, who grew up just around the corner and remembered a completely different structure. “I recalled a one-story home,” Gene muses, highlighting the magnitude of the home’s metamorphosis. Much like his character Beau, Gene returned to Dallas to find several delightful surprises, with the Kincaid/Stringer home standing as a prime example.
The Renovation Journey: A Family Affair
The massive renovation project, skillfully executed by home builder Tony Gustafson, was a profound experience for the entire Kincaid/Stringer family. During the extensive construction phase, they temporarily relocated to the cozy 480-square-foot apartment situated above the garage, which had previously served as Shannon’s studio. “It was like a little love nest,” Shannon recalls with a smile, emphasizing the intimacy and shared experience of living in close quarters. This unique arrangement allowed them to be intimately involved in every stage of the renovation, personally monitoring the progress daily. Their hands-on approach and constant presence ensured that every detail aligned with their vision, imbuing the home with an even deeper personal resonance. This dedication speaks volumes about their commitment to crafting a space that truly reflects their personalities and artistic sensibilities.
Shannon Kincaid: An Artist’s Touch in Every Detail
Shannon Kincaid’s artistic influence extends far beyond her canvases and into the very fabric of her home. She personally undertook a significant portion of the decorative work, including applying all the Venetian plaster, lending a sophisticated and authentic Italian texture to the walls. Furthermore, she meticulously crafted and troweled in all the intricate tile mosaics throughout the house, each piece a testament to her dedication and eye for detail. A particularly striking example is the mosaic above the stove top, her stained-glass rendition of Renoir’s iconic “Luncheon of the Boating Party.” This piece not only showcases her extraordinary skill but also perfectly encapsulates the spirit of camaraderie and joy that defines her family life. A true prodigy, Shannon has been an artist since the tender age of two, professionally earning a living from her art since she was fifteen. Her impressive portfolio includes a painting owned by Oprah Winfrey, which proudly graces Oprah’s Leadership Academy in Johannesburg, South Africa. This connection was forged through her powerful work displayed at the T. Boone Pickens cancer hospital. Her poignant paintings created in the wake of 9/11 are now part of the permanent collections of two esteemed NYC museums, and her unique artistic vision has led to numerous commissions from restaurants and private collectors. Her home, therefore, is not merely a dwelling but another grand canvas, a living embodiment of her boundless creativity and unwavering passion for art.
Gene Gallerano’s Personal Connection to 7130 Brookcove
For Gene Gallerano, selecting the Kincaid/Stringer home as a key filming location for “Occupy Texas” was deeply personal. Beyond its aesthetic perfection for the film’s requirements, Gene has been best friends with Obie Stringer, Shannon’s son, since the sixth grade. “I grew up with Obie,” Gene explains, “We met at St. John’s. This is the neighborhood I grew up in!” His childhood memories are intrinsically linked to this very area of Dallas. Upon first revisiting the property, he was initially bewildered, failing to recognize the sprawling Italian villa that had replaced the familiar two-bedroom, two-bath ranch house he remembered. However, once he realized it was the Kincaid/Stringer home, a flood of cherished memories returned – memories of a house always vibrant and alive, perpetually “filled with family, fun and good times.”
“It was a one-story home that had grown,” Gene reflects, capturing the essence of the remarkable transformation. He insightfully notes, “Shannon basically made another piece of art, her home.” This personal connection proved invaluable for the film’s production. Gene was thrilled to share the news with his partners: “I know these people, they are amazing — and these guys will let us shoot there.” This not only simplified logistics but also infused the project with an authentic familial warmth. Adding to the excitement, Shannon Kincaid herself will be making a cameo appearance in the film, further intertwining her artistic spirit with the narrative being brought to life within the walls of her own masterpiece. This unique confluence of personal history, artistic expression, and cinematic storytelling promises to make “Occupy Texas” a truly special and memorable production.