Philip Hedley displayed a democratic socialist dedication that was both profound and practical: “Politics is what people DO, even if they don’t know it sometimes.” There was no Hedley agit-prop. He let the theatre do the work of enlightenment and emancipation.
A lifelong Labour party member, he put his professional talent into the service of every progressive cause and battle against bigotry, exploitation and oppression.
Firmly but charmingly – always a smiler – he would insert coherence into the timing and running order of fundraising concerts, calm nerves and modify egos, at least for the evening. He did all that until age limited his busy energy – but just a bit, and under protest.
