In “SEVEN and a half YEARS” you will witness an extraordinary true story as Mark shares his moving, darkly humorous, and uplifting journey through the power of music and storytelling in this acclaimed solo Musical.

Mark Glentworth was at the height of a successful music career and then he lost it all. Suffering a breakdown, he spent SEVEN and a half YEARS in isolation, firstly for six months inside a psychiatric unit and then for seven years inside his own home, existing on just a single sandwich every day from his corner shop. But eventually, he made it back to his family, to the world, and to music. The show touches on such universal subjects such as mental health, loss, grief, rejuvenation, recovery and hope.

Press and Nominations

OFFFEST NOMINATION | OffWestEnd nominee for shows at the Greater Manchester Fringe 2023

BEST MUSICAL Runner-Up | Musical Theatre Review Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2021 Awards

★★★★ “Glentworth is clearly an outstanding musician, and the music in the show – which switches seamlessly from prerecorded tracks to live piano and back again – is testament to his talent.... this is a really good piece of storytelling” North West End UK

★★★★ “polished performance... Since the short run of this show last year, a part of my memory was still wrapped up in this story” Musical Theatre Review (2022)

★★★★ “This is a biographical work like nothing else I have ever seen... A master craftsman of a truly high pedigree, fulfilling his potential... this show tells his survivor’s story in an expression of hope... His sincerity and musicianship are luminous.” Musical Theatre Review (2021)

★★★★ “Glentworth rises to the challenge of the role magnificently... Directed by Julia Stubbs the result is a moving piece of theatre.” ReviewsGate

“Glentworth is a superb musician, and the score is complex and demanding.” British Theatre Guide

“an intensely personal piece that is both real and relevant... (with) fully crafted songs which were sophisticated and worthy of being performed by themselves... a wonderfully creative piece that never slacked in pace using a variety of genres as a showcase for the multi-talents of the solo performer” Reviewer Number 9

“Glentworth is a talented composer and this shines through... It’s a beautiful tale of hope and mental health struggles.” LOST IN Theatreland


All tickets include a £1 admin charge

Approx running time 1 hour

All purchases for show at the Alma now have a suggested donation to the theatre and inhouse company of £2.00

You can remove this donation by changing the amount to £0.00, but please do consider offering your generosity to help us continue to offer great theatre at affordable prices.

The Alma Theatre has been serving the community for 25 years and has never been the recipient of ACE or other funding and were unable to secure the Covid Arts Recovery Fund. We have been offering reduced rates, preferential box office splits and extended promo support to aid the recovery from the past year and a half. Your help will enable us to continue bringing fantastic stories to your local theatre. 50% of your donation will go to the Alma Theatre, and 50% to our inhouse company, Schoolhouse Productions.

For our refunds and latecomers policy, please head to the Alma’s Theatre Information page.