Andy Halliday, an actor and playwright known for his exceptional comedic talent, was a cherished figure in the theater world. Particularly memorable for his role in Charles Busch’s Theater in Limbo repertory company, Halliday became famous for his work in the campy classic, Vampire Lesbians of Sodom. This Off-Broadway hit is among the longest-running plays of its kind.

Halliday passed away on May 5 at a hospital in Palm Springs, California. He was 73 years old. The cause of death was complications related to Parkinson’s disease, as confirmed by his sister and sole immediate survivor, Susan Cohen.

“Andy was irresistible,” said Paul Rudnick, a playwright, novelist, and screenwriter, describing Halliday as “helplessly funny,” akin to Carol Burnett and Imogene Coca. Despite his natural comedic flair, Halliday never initially saw himself in a comic role. His original ambition was to pursue a career in dance.

Halliday’s connection with Busch started during their teenage years at a New Hampshire theater camp. They were both cast as dancing newsboys in the musical “Gypsy,” despite Busch’s limited dance skills. Halliday dedicated hours to rehearsing a tap number with Busch, ultimately leading to a strong friendship.

In 1984, fate intervened when Busch was unexpectedly given a two-night slot for a production that hadn’t been created yet. This performance took place at Limbo Lounge, located in Manhattan’s Alphabet City.

Halliday’s contributions to theater were deeply appreciated, and his loss is felt keenly by those who knew him both on and off the stage.