And in 1976, he made his first choreography titled The Officer's Servant for the Cullberg Ballet. In 1978, Ek became, together with Birgit Cullberg, artistic director of the Cullberg Ballet, until 1985 when the responsibility became his entirely.
He made his debut in 1976 with The Officer's Servant choreography for the Cullberg Ballet. Two years later, Ek collaborated with Birgit Cullberg to lead the Cullberg Ballet as artistic director until 1985 when he assumed full control of the position.