Last night we headed to Theatre Royal Winchester for the very first time to see Jay & Joss: It’s Not A Game, and we also brought along Mason’s friend, Franklin. I honestly can’t believe we’ve never visited this beautiful theatre before, it’s such a lovely venue and we’ll definitely be back!
Having watched Jay & Joss on Britain’s Got Talent, the boys were so excited to finally see them perform live. I can honestly say I’ve never seen them sit so still or be so completely invested in a show. They’re at that age where they think they know everything, so hearing the constant gasps and watching the looks of amazement on their faces was magical enough for me!
More Than Just a Magic Show
We already knew Jay & Joss were brilliant at what they do, but It’s Not A Game takes things to a whole new level.
This isn’t your traditional magic show. It’s clever, modern, funny and completely mesmerising from the very beginning. The whole show is built around the theme of artificial intelligence (AI), which immediately had the boys hooked. Their hilarious virtual assistant, Debra, had everyone laughing throughout the evening and yes… she even performs a little magic herself!
The show perfectly combines incredible illusions with technology, comedy and storytelling, making it feel fresh and unlike any magic show we’ve seen before.
Last night we headed to Theatre Royal Winchester for the very first time to see Jay & Joss: It’s Not A Game, and we also brought along Mason’s friend, Franklin. I honestly can’t believe we’ve never visited this beautiful theatre before, it’s such a lovely venue and we’ll definitely be back!
Having watched Jay & Joss on Britain’s Got Talent, the boys were so excited to finally see them perform live. I can honestly say I’ve never seen them sit so still or be so completely invested in a show. They’re at that age where they think they know everything, so hearing the constant gasps and watching the looks of amazement on their faces was magical enough for me!
More Than Just a Magic Show
We already knew Jay & Joss were brilliant at what they do, but It’s Not A Game takes things to a whole new level.
This isn’t your traditional magic show. It’s clever, modern, funny and completely mesmerising from the very beginning. The whole show is built around the theme of artificial intelligence (AI), which immediately had the boys hooked. Their hilarious virtual assistant, Debra, had everyone laughing throughout the evening and yes… she even performs a little magic herself!
The show perfectly combines incredible illusions with technology, comedy and storytelling, making it feel fresh and unlike any magic show we’ve seen before.
A Fully Immersive Theatre Experience
One of the cleverest things about the production is just how immersive it is.
Without giving away any spoilers (because trust me, you need to experience it yourself!), the audience becomes part of the show in ways we never expected. Every illusion had people questioning what they had just seen and looking around the theatre in disbelief.
There were so many moments where the entire audience was laughing one minute and completely speechless the next.
The Jaw-Dropping “Jaws of Death”
The highlight of the evening had to be the breathtaking Jaws of Death finale.
Both performers were suspended completely upside down above the stage, securely locked inside heavy-duty straightjackets. Hanging above them was what can only be described as an enormous mechanical bear trap fitted with razor-sharp jaws, set to snap shut on a timed release.
The challenge? Escape from the straightjackets, free themselves and clear the mechanism before the giant jaws slammed shut.
I genuinely had to watch through my fingers.
The countdown built the tension perfectly and, somehow, Jay & Joss managed to escape with what felt like less than half a second to spare before the mechanical jaws violently crashed shut.
It was one of those moments where the entire audience held their breath before erupting into applause.
Absolutely incredible.
Perfect for Families (Even If You’re Not Into Magic!)
I’ll be honest… I’m not usually the biggest fan of magic shows.
But this wasn’t just magic.
It’s a brilliantly produced theatre show with comedy, suspense, technology, audience interaction and some genuinely jaw-dropping illusions that leave you wondering how on earth they managed it.
We all came away talking about it and trying to work out how everything was done (with absolutely no success!).
Mason, Franklin and both of us absolutely loved every minute.
It's Not A Game - Theatre Royal Winchester Information
If you missed last nights show there is still time as there is an evening performances at 7pm.
The show is suitable for families with older children (recommended age 8+) and runs for approximately 1 hour and 55 minutes, including an interval.
Last few Tickets at Theatre Royal Winchester start from £16, making it a fantastic value family theatre night out. (Theatre Royal Winchester)
Where Can You See Jay & Joss Next?
If you missed the Winchester performances, don’t worry!
It’s Not A Game is touring theatres across the UK throughout summer 2026, with upcoming performances including:
● Barnstaple
● Malvern
● Leamington Spa
● Brecon
● Lincoln
● Guildford
● Wrexham
● New Brighton
You can check the full list of tour dates and find your nearest venue by visiting the official Jay & Joss tour website. (Jay & Joss®)
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a family theatre show that’s funny, thrilling, interactive and genuinely different, then Jay & Joss: It’s Not A Game is one we wouldn’t hesitate to recommend.
Whether you’re already a fan from Britain’s Got Talent or simply looking for a unique family night out, this show delivers big laughs, huge surprises and edge-of-your-seat moments from start to finish.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 5/5
An unforgettable evening of modern magic, incredible illusions and spectacular family entertainment.
*Disclaimer: We were kindly invited to watch It’s Not A Game starring Jay & Joss at Theatre Royal Winchester in exchange for an honest review. As always, all opinions are our own.
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