Update: The planets aligned and they did indeed let people walk through the queue! I commented on my wish to an employee stationed at the gate in the morning, and he winked at me and said to try again later in the afternoon. Yippee! It was a perfect stroll through the castle, stopping for all of the videos and just to check out some rooms in greater depth. There were a few other nerds wandering through, and the atmosphere was perfectly calm and appreciative. IMHO, it was the absolute best way to experience the magic!
