Verb Tense Selection for Play Performance

The question asks to select the most appropriate verb form to complete the sentence: "The play usually needs half an hour for its preparation and makeup, and its performance __________ within ten minutes."

The phrase 'usually needs' sets a general context, indicating a typical or habitual situation. Therefore, the verb in the second clause should also be in the simple present tense to maintain consistency.

Analyzing Options for Verb Tense

• 1. would end: This tense suggests a conditional or past habitual action, which does not fit the context of a general statement about the play's typical performance duration.
• 2. ends: This is the simple present tense. It correctly indicates a habitual or usual occurrence, aligning with 'usually needs'. The performance typically concludes within ten minutes.
• 3. has ended: This is the present perfect tense. It implies the action is completed, which is contrary to describing the usual duration.
• 4. ended: This is the simple past tense. It refers to a specific event in the past and does not fit the general statement being made.

Based on the analysis, the simple present tense 'ends' is the most appropriate choice to describe the usual duration of the play's performance.