The next release will have a better communication method to interact with the npcs, but until then, to help you get through it, this stickied thread has been made.
Also with the next release all new characters going through the tutorial will be able to see each other, so you'll be able to ask your fellow players for help as an added bonus.
As for a date when the new release is scheduled to go live, all I can say is it will be sooner than later. It's currently undergoing internal testing before being released to the masses.