“On Your Feet” traces the Estefans’ rise to international stardom, Gloria Estefan’s devastating injuries in a 1990 tour bus crash and her determined return to the stage just months later at the 1991 American Music Awards. Ortega has directed five productions of “On Your Feet,” including previous runs at the Argyle and the John W. Engeman Theater in Northport. While directing the musical at Riverside Theatre in Florida, Ortega even had the opportunity to welcome Gloria and Emilio Estefan to the audience. This time around, however, Ortega said his own life experiences have deepened his connection to Gloria Estefan’s story. Pappas said the parallels between Ortega’s own recovery and Estefan’s journey have brought an added layer of authenticity to the production.