Sift flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in dates, sugar, and nuts; beat in an egg at a time. Stir in vanilla. Turn into 9 x 13 inch pan and bake at 300 degrees for 45 minutes. Cool. Break half of cake into small pieces and arrange on platter. (It will be sticky.) Top with bananas and oranges. Break rest of cake and pile on top; shape in a mound. Top with drained pineapple. Spread entire cake with whipped cream. Decorate with cherries and nuts, if desired. Chill. This is a little messy to work with, but well worth the effort. Very rich.