I'm not sure the dinner package is a must, but getting in line at least 45 min prior IS! I was down in January and got to the gate 35 minutes prior to the show and they roped it off and told us they were full. Now, I figured that I wouldn't get a great seat, but full at 35 min out? I remember walking in 5 minutes prior and still being able to get in when they had it every night...
I was pretty disapointed, but hey, the recommendations are out there for a reason, right?!