David Mendizábal vividly remembers sitting in the audience for the final performances of playwright Lin-Manuel Miranda’s “In the Heights.” Almost two decades later, Mendizábal is directing the musical that was once his “portal to the theater.”

“It was the first time I’d ever heard or seen a world that looked and sounded like mine on an American stage,” Mendizábal told The Associated Press, referring to the 2008 musical that was a landmark for Latino representation and won four Tony Awards .

With a new cast of Latino artists, the New York City Center is presenting “In the Heights” for a limited three-week run through Nov. 15. It is the first major revival of the musical debuting at a time when, to Mendizábal, it’s vital to “show people the depth and breadth” of Latino communities.

“I think in this particular moment we need a great balm of joy, and this show brings that,” Mendizábal said.

Miranda, who also starred in the original production, recalled his experience resurrecting his barrier-breaking work.…