After trying to run the program, updating as required, I'd ended up with two different RLC program folders and Start Menu shortcuts, which mess I suspect was connected with the problems I described above. After doing a uninstall, followed by manually deleting remaing files and folders, running a registry repair program, and then running regedit and getting annoyed with how may instances of "redlightcenter" still existed in the registry but chickening out on deleting them, I re-downloaded the installation program and ran it afresh.
This time it worked like it is supposed to. I didn't find the place where you can fly, which is what I liked the best from my earlier visits. It did seem to be a bit different from how I remember it. Portaling from one spot to another worked quickly.