Cholet

Cholet, a town famous for its clothing and shoe industry, was a focal point of the Royalist uprisings during the Revolution, and a historical account of this troubled period can be found in the museum of the same name (Musée des Guerres de Vendée).
The Sons et Lumières in le Puy-du-Fou (20 km from Cholet) is now one of the best in Europe. The show, which has a cast of amateur actors only, changes in some way every year (june, july, 2nd half of august, 1st week in september).
To avoid disappointment, be sure to book seats and accomodation in advance.