Dubbed a "72 Hour environmental community happening," The Invisible Circus, also billed as The Rite by Spring, materialized as a multi-faceted event. Anchored by an in-house media outfit headquartered in GLIDE's basement cubicles, the Circus featured live dispatches, delivered an avant-garde blend of talks, and was marked by immersive elements, including the lavish use of packing foam throughout the building. Amidst this experimental milieu, lectures delved into discussions on the hazards of pornography. The atmosphere embraced the ethos of the recent Human Be-In in Golden Gate Park, fusing rock music with a spirited bacchanalia vibe.
With the inaugural night beckoning a staggering attendance of over 5,000 individuals and the prospect of more participants over the subsequent two days, the anticipation was palpable. However, eight or nine hours into the unfolding three-day extravaganza, a pivotal juncture was reached. As the congregation witnessed candle-wielding, wax-dripping nudity and reveled in Janis Joplin's captivating performance, officials from Glide Church took a decisive stance. Cognizant of the proceedings, they concluded that they had witnessed enough, abruptly halting the event before the first morning. The aftermath saw celebrants scatter throughout the city, continuing the festivities in diverse corners. A portion reconvened on Sunday, aligning with revolutionary pastor Cecil Williams, to culminate the Circus in a uniquely memorable culmination.

Glide Church holds a significant place in the cultural tapestry of 1960s San Francisco and beyond. This poster stands as a testament to the vibrant counterculture that defined its era, capturing the essence of a time when innovation, creativity, and social consciousness converged

Condition: Toning, handling, creases, staining, writing on reverse.

-- CRITICAL DETAILS --
Title: Invisible Circus
Grade: Fine 57
Venue: Glide Church
City: San Francisco, California
Date: February 2 1967
Size: 19.75" x 14.50"
Printing: Original Printing

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