once the media leaves, crowds should be fine.
i have gone to opening nights in past years and it has been fine.
the front of the park will be crowded due to media filming.
crowds that are there do thin out in the later evening.
on the other hand, if many buy the FF and other passes that cover many of the dates, and if the houses that are announced are a draw, you could see crowds opening night.
i say if this is your only chance to do it, go for it.....
lots have changed since 1997.
my first year was 1999 and it was thrilling.