WE did the waterside Nov, 2003. Our boys were 7 & 9. It was worth doing for us because we are not good at sitting to save a spot for hours ahead!
I cannot remember exactly how long before the show we had to check-in(a 1/2 maybe). All I remember is that there was 3 rows and the front row was the best (first to check-in got the best seats). We were about 8th to check-in and we were in the second row which was okay but our youngest had trouble seeing. There also was a few poles in the way as well.
We had unlimited cookies (so-so), chocolate covered strawberries, hot choc, water, etc. Maybe they do desserts now (that would be nicer).
The night we went to the show people were saving their spots hours before the show!! I was so glad that we did not have to do that! The whole area around was full to the brim at showtime!
I have heard many say the they got just as good seats and did not pay a thing. They are correct but they have to sit for hours to save that spot! Yuck!