I must admit, I kind of like it when people use colors since I stick with the standard black background. But I don't tend to use them myself since I know some people dont' like them, and so often I'm in a hurry when I type that I don't like to spend the time. If its up to me, then lets not use them, as at least one player has voiced his objection.
As for the shadows, they've gotten tougher since 1E, haven't they. The module puts 6 in, but now they're CR 3, so 6 of them are...pretty tough, particularly for a group w/o many magic weapons. I think you can handle them, though. Otherwise it will be a pretty short game, huh? If you survive they might take you to 6th level.
So, do you know Darkmaster, Barak?