Catching a show at 10.15am might not sound like the most appealing thing to do at the Fringe, but Cadaver Palaver at Summerhall is just the perfect wake up call anyone could possibly need in August.

On arrival, the stage is refreshingly bare, with no elaborate sets. Just one man, a sharp suit, a walking stick and a glint in his eye. But what it lacks in décor, it more than makes up for in atmospheric lighting that enhances the narrative as and when required.

At the centre of the storm is Bennett Cooper Sullivan—a man sharp of tongue and tailoring. Imagine Richard Hannay with his tongue firmly in his cheek and a mass of theatrical flair. He swashbuckles his way through his tale at breakneck speed, dodging danger, double-crosses and dastardly villains with his arsenal of hard learned skills from his nefarious past. Much of the action takes place in Edinburgh and his Scottish accent was spot on – who knew there an East Lothian Egyptologist Society!

The dialogue is rapid-fire and brimming with witty asides—some of which are so sly you almost miss them if you’re not paying attention. Fortunately, the audience was wide awake, despite the early hour, and absolutely lapped it up.

Despite the start time, the show was busy—a clear sign that word is getting around. And rightly so. Cadaver Palaver is an absolute must-see this Fringe. Smart, silly, and slick as anything.

Reviewed by Rona