We saw Fantasmic in early July 2000, the later show, without the package, and it was a tortuous wait. People packed together for over 90 minutes in the heat and humidity with no where to sit or even move with aching feet and crying children.
This time we're not taking any chances and doing FDP.
I would suggest doing the dinner package even for the later time, but I'm curious to read about the experiences and advice of others.