SAMPSON COUNTY -- Vanessa Richardson is the drama director at Deliverance Victory Temple in Harrells, North Carolina.

She writes plays based on what teens are dealing with at her church. Students say the program helps them make smarter choices.

One of the plays is called "Someone To Love Me". The main character, Angel, feels alone because her mother works long hours. The neglect takes its toll and Angel self-destructs but eventually finds her way.

Richardson says she writes the plays loosely based on discussions she's had with youth during their 'Power Talk Sessions'. "They express their lines and it's like cathartic for them because they see some answers, sometimes your too close to the situation where you don't see it, so when they take on the character, they're like ah ha, an epiphany just came, I see it with clarity now".

Youth drama member Anesha Carr enjoys the sessions. "It helps me. It promotes me to do better".

The group meets every Tuesday and Wednesday. Richardson says she's seen the youth rise above their personal situations.

The youth group will perform on May 10 at Union High School in Clinton. Tickets are $15.00 dollars, $7.50 for children under 12.

Union High School
455 River Road
Clinton, NC 28328