Antonio "a Merchant of Venice" A Christian merchant and nobleman, Antonio strikes a deal with Shylock on behalf of his friend Bassanio. Actor David Bamber trained at Bristol University and, later, the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, where he was awarded the Gold Medal in 1979. A versatile performer, Bamber has worked extensively in theatre, film, television, and radio. He received an Olivier Award for Best Actor for his role as Roger Michell in My Night with Reg at the Royal Court & Criterion Theatres. He has previously appeared on Masterpiece Theatre as Dr. Forrest in The Railway Children (2000) and as P. Frobisher Pilbeam in Heavy Weather (1996). American audiences may also recognize him from the BBC mini-series Pride and Prejudice (1995).