Performers plan to help Cape resource center

The Dramatization Force Association, a group of Christian performers of high school to college age, will hold a performance of "The Lost American Pirate Saga" at 6 p.m. April 27 at the First Church of the Nazarene, 2601 Independence St., Cape Girardeau. The event will benefit the Cape Area Family Resource Center at 1201 S. Sprigg St. in Cape Girardeau. Tickets may be purchased at the door or by calling 979-4088 or 335-6767.

The Family Resource Center in South Cape supports children who would ordinarily go to empty homes after school with homework help, reading encouragement and visits by caring groups to give children a sense of community. The free, daily, after-school program and its summer school program have served students for six years. It also offers a lunch and learn program for seniors and parent education programs.

Fire and safety violation issues have caused the center to struggle with closing its doors, but the center continues to function while making strides to better the conditions.

While the building is structurally sound, furnaces need to be better encapsulated and leaks needs to fixed. The water heater's location is not ideal, and because of improper insulation, the center is not energy-efficient.

"Through all the adversity, we are still trying to stay true to our word to provide meaningful after school programming for south-side kids," said the center's executive director, Denise Lincoln.

The Dramatization Force Association learned about the center and its struggles and offered to help by donating the proceeds from a performance of "The Lost American Pirate Saga," a tale that includes treasure, pride and trouble.

The contract with cast members includes a commitment to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ to church and the community through drama. Their performances are Christian-based and family-oriented.

Director Michael Toeniskoetter, 19, said the group began performing at the First Church of the Nazarene day care once a week as a means to help children understand the gospel, rather than just listening to a lecture. The ministry has grown and includes performances at the church's worship service.

Toeniskoetter said he would like to see the group perform for children attending the Family Resource Center's summer school program.