I agree with Chris, I would try optimizing VFP before converting, try defining classes in code, this is faster than using visual classes. Try simplifing your screens and populate data as needed. If you still need better performance you can preinstanciate forms at the start of the program and hide and show them rather than instansiating and releasing them (This has worked for me, but would not be my first choice)
Bob
'If the people lead, the leaders will follow'
'War does not determine who is RIGHT, just who is LEFT'