The last two times I have gone at that time of year, they are doing lots of taping in different areas. Lines for rides are usually short because everyone wants to be at the parade or shows in front of the castle. If you check in earlier in week, sometimes you can get included in the taping of the parade. But, I believe they make you get there real early and stay there, but mid-day they swap out the morning guests and bring in differerent parade viewers for the afternoon.
I've gone and watched the performers by the castle, its usually 4 or 5 takes for each song routine being performed over there.