I have to say, in finding a highlight that speaks to what Mudcat is... (besides the overall wonderous event of seeing the English speaking world's folk tradition laid out so well...) is seeing in music the spirit of brother and sisterhood in conflict, in presenting opposing views with beauty and respect...
On the Violet CD, there is an North Irish Loyalist song, "The Campsite at Drumcree" from Derrymacash and a North Irish Repulican ballad, Henry Joy McCracken from Martin Ryan, both performed beautifully, both speaking to the concerns of their community from the heart, and OH! to hear a big concert of us all, with Marin and Derrymacash on stage together, in harmonious disagreement, but sharing the comradery of music.
Cheers
Larry